Bubbles receives ceremonial sword from Japanese Prime Minister

Bubbles accepts a ceremonial sword from Japanese Prime Minister Yasuhiro Nakasone.

The moment reflects the unusual level of attention around Michael’s Japanese visit, where even his pet chimp becomes part of the public spectacle and press coverage surrounding the Bad Tour opening.

The event is unusual, but it captures the spectacle around the tour launch. Bubbles is treated almost like an ambassadorial figure in the coverage, showing how Michael’s entourage and image became part of the story.