Japan’s Emperor & Empress Arrive in Canada

Just over two hours ago, Japan’s Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko arrived in Ottawa, Canada for their 11-day goodwill visit of the Great White North.

It is the first time the couple is visiting the country since Akihito ascended to the throne in 1989. He once toured Canada in 1953 as a 19 year-old Crown Prince.

This tour is to mark the 80 years Canada established diplomatic ties with Japan.

“Fifty-six years have passed since then, and I am much delighted that I will be visiting there once again, this time with the Empress,”Akihito said in a departure speech.

Upon arriving, the Emperor and Empress were greeted by Foreign Minister Lawrence Cannon and Cooperation Minister Bev Oda.

On Saturday, the couple will visit MacKenzie King estate in Gatineau Park, near Ottawa. Sunday will see them meet with Canada’s leaders, Governor General Michaelle Jean, and Prime Minister Stephen Harper.

For the rest of their tour, Akihito and Michiko will be in Toronto, Victoria and Vancouver.

After Canada, they will move on to Hawaii, to mark the 50th anniversary of a scholarship foundation, which was set up to commemorate the imperial couple’s golden anniversary, plus meet with Hawaii’s large Japanese community.

Also in Hawaii, the Emperor and Empress will visit the National Memorial Cemetary of the Pacific, where American soldiers, including those who died in the Japanese attack of Pearl Harbor, are interred.