King Charles Welcomes Japanese Royals on UK State Visit

The United Kingdom is currently hosting Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan in a historic three-day state visit. This marks the first UK visit by a Japanese head of state since 1998, making it an event of significant diplomatic importance. Interestingly, this state visit coincides with a general election campaign, which adds to its unusual nature.

In accordance with neutrality rules during elections, some conventional political elements, like visits to Downing Street, have been omitted from the itinerary. However, traditional pomp and pageantry are still very much part of the program.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla formally welcomed the royal couple into central London on Saturday amid gun salutes and renditions of both countries' national anthems. They also met other key dignitaries, such as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who has been advocating for stronger ties between Britain and Japan.

After inspecting the guard of honor together with King Charles III, Emperor Naruhito was taken on a short carriage ride to Buckingham Palace, where they had lunch. Despite his ongoing battle with cancer, announced earlier this year in February, King Charles III hosted his guests at an exclusive exhibition showcasing items from the Royal Collection associated with Japan.

Emperor Naruhito laid down a wreath at Westminster Abbey's Grave of Unknown Warrior, where they attended Queen Elizabeth II's funeral in September 2022, before proceeding to attend a grand banquet held in their honor at Buckingham Palace later that day.

During his speech at the banquet, King Charles stressed their nations’ shared values forged through history's lessons, including those learned during darker times. He emphasized how these principles have become increasingly crucial given today's world, where freedom, democracy, and rule of law are frequently challenged.

King Charles took this opportunity to wish 'Hello Kitty', one of Japan’s most beloved animated characters celebrating her 50th birthday recently, another gesture reinforcing cultural exchange between two nations.

This trip marks Emperor Naruhito's second official state visit since his ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne in 2019, following a previous trip to Indonesia last year. The pandemic postponed Emperor Naruhito's initial 2020 schedule for his first overseas visit.

On Wednesday, Emperor Naruhito will be visiting the Francis Crick Institute, which is the UK's leading biomedical research center. Later that day, he will attend a banquet hosted by the Lord Mayor and City of London Corporation.

Thursday morning will see their formal farewell at Buckingham Palace, followed by their visit to the 'Japan: Myths to Manga' exhibition at the V&A Museum in London. The emperor will also participate in a private wreath-laying ceremony on Queen Elizabeth's tomb at Windsor Castle.

This historic event is indeed a testament to the strong diplomatic relations between Japan and the United Kingdom, fostered over many years. It not only helps strengthen political ties but also encourages cultural exchange and mutual understanding among nations.