The awards ceremony for the 13th Praemium Imperiale was held at the Meiji Memorial Hall in Tokyo on October 25th, 2001, in presence of Honorary Patron of the Japan Art Association Prince Hitachi, and Princess Hitachi.

The recipients of the 13th Preamium Imperiale were Lee Ufan in the category of painting, Marta Pan in the category of sculpture, Jean Nouvel in the category of architecture, Ornette Coleman in the category of music, and Arthur Miller in the category of theatre/film. While four of the recipients attended the ceremony, Arthur Miller could not come to Japan. About 300 guests including dignitaries and celebrities were present.

Each recipient was conferred with an award medal by Price Hitachi, and a testimonial letter and honorarium by trustees of the Japan Art association. The six international advisors, Umberto Agnelli Raymond Barre, Sir Edward Heath, William Luers, Yasuhiro Nakasone, and Richard von Weizsaecker were also present, and gave words of congratulations. Prince Hitachi delivered remarks, and Marta Pan expressed thanks on behalf of the recipients.

Prior to the awards ceremony, in the morning of October 25th, the recipients, international advisors, and their spouses had an audience with the Emperor and Empress of Japan at the Fukiage palace. Their Majesties congratulated the development of the Praemium Imperiale and spoke warmly with each recipient about their work.