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When guests of honor from overseas were welcomed
at the Kantei, the buildings took on an atmosphere of pomp and ceremony.
At the main gate, the national flags of Japan and the country of the visiting
dignitary were raised and in the Entrance Hall a red carpet was laid out.
On the occasions of welcome banquets or receptions, which were held in venues
such as the Grand Hall, invited guests from every sector of society sometimes
numbered in excess of 100 people.
On such days, the guards at the Kantei also wore special uniforms with
gold braiding especially for the occasion. It was also usual for the Prime Minister
to greet an arriving dignitary at the Entrance Hall. In olden times, it used to
be the case that the Prime Minister and invited guests would dress in black ties
on many of such occasions, but recently the atmosphere at these occasions has
become less formal.
Cuisine on such occasions is prepared under the direction of first-class chefs
displaying their skills in Japanese, French and other cuisine. Wine is also chosen
to complement the given menu for the occasion or to suit the taste of the guests,
and in some cases Japanese sake and famous spirits and alcoholic beverages of
the visiting country are also served. Menus are also planned and prepared in great
detail, taking into consideration the special requirements of a visiting dignitary,
for example the religious dietary restrictions. |
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