Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako have departed Tokyo on an official visit to the Netherlands and Belgium, marking their fourth overseas state trip since the Emperor's accession to the throne.
The visit aims to strengthen diplomatic ties and deepen cooperation between Japan and its European partners.
According to Japan's Kyodo News Agency, the imperial couple will spend nearly two weeks in Europe, taking part in official ceremonies, state banquets, and meetings hosted by the royal families of both countries.
The trip marks the first imperial visit to the Netherlands in 13 years and to Belgium in 27 years.
During their stay in the Netherlands, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako will attend official events in Amsterdam hosted by King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima.
The imperial couple is also scheduled to meet Dutch Prime Minister Rob Jetten, visit the Dutch Parliament in The Hague, and lay wreaths at a war memorial honoring victims of conflict.
Ahead of the trip, Emperor Naruhito expressed hope that the visit would provide an opportunity to further strengthen the bonds of friendship between Japan and the people of both countries.
The imperial couple will then travel to Brussels on June 20, coinciding with the 160th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan and Belgium.
They will be welcomed by King Philippe and Queen Mathilde as part of a series of commemorative events celebrating the longstanding relationship between the two nations.
Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako are expected to leave Belgium on June 25 and return to Japan the following day, concluding a diplomatic tour designed to reinforce bilateral ties and highlight the historical friendship between Japan and Europe.
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