Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako visit London for a three-day state visit, welcomed by King Charles III and Queen Camilla with pomp and pageantry, including a guard of honour, carriage procession, and state banquet at Buckingham Palace. The visit includes visits to Westminster Abbey, a special exhibition of items from the Royal Collection relating to Japan, and the Francis Crick Institute. The Emperor and Empress bid farewell on the third day, visiting the V&A museum and Windsor Castle before heading to Oxford.
Key Points
Pomp and pageantry with royal salutes, carriage procession, and state banquet
Special exhibition of Japanese-related items from the Royal Collection
Visit to the Francis Crick Institute for biomedical research
Farewell visit to the V&A museum and Windsor Castle
Pros
Symbol of international diplomacy and friendship between Japan and the UK
Cultural exchange and mutual respect showcased through various events and engagements
Cons
Political elements of the visit impacted by UK's upcoming general election