Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan were warmly received by King Charles III, Queen Camilla, and Prince Charles at Buckingham Palace to mark the start of their three-day state visit to the UK.
The visit includes reinforcing military, scientific, and cultural ties between the UK and Japan, with ancient traditions and modern politics intertwining during the red-carpet welcome.
Despite the absence of Princess Anne due to a horse-related injury, the Japanese royal couple received a formal royal greeting at Horse Guards Parade followed by a procession to Buckingham Palace.
State banquets and diplomatic gestures will continue throughout the visit, culminating in a nostalgic return to Oxford University for the emperor and empress.