Japan's Princess Akiko Visits Gelephu Mindfulness City in Bhutan

Princess Akiko of Mikasa is making an unofficial visit to Bhutan at the invitation of Queen Jetsun Pema to mark the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Bhutan and Japan. On August 10, 2026, Princess Akiko, accompanied by King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck, visited Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC).

At GMC, Princess Akiko toured ChoeGo GMC and Gelephu town, and visited Ugyen Norlha Chorten to offer prayers. Gelephu Mindfulness City, also known as the Gelephu Special Administrative Region, is an economic hub and special administrative region in Gelephu, Bhutan, established as part of an initiative to develop the region as a new economic centre.