Crown Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko depart for Norway

Crown Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko departed from Haneda Airport on a government aircraft to attend the funeral of former Norwegian King Harald V. The ceremony is scheduled to take place on September 9 at the Oslo Cathedral.

Following imperial custom, Emperor Naruhito dispatched the couple to represent the Japanese Imperial Family. The funeral will be attended by various international royals, including Prince William of the United Kingdom. The Crown Prince and Princess are expected to participate in the funeral procession, carrying the coffin from the Royal Palace to the cathedral, before returning to Japan on September 10.

The visit highlights the long-standing ties between the Japanese and Norwegian royal families. Former King Harald V had previously visited Japan as a state guest in 2001, and the current King, Haakon VII, has maintained close relations with the Japanese Imperial Family, including attending Emperor Naruhito’s enthronement ceremonies.