The long awaited State Visit by the Emperor and Empress of Japan got under way with a spectacular show of pageantry.
Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako were given an official welcome to London by King Charles and Queen Camilla.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Emperor and Empress were accompanied to Horse Guards Parade by the Prince of Wales who had earlier met them at their hotel to begin the welcome.
Embed from Getty ImagesAlso waiting for the Imperial guests at Horse Guards were the Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, and the Foreign Secretary, Lord Cameron of Chipping Norton. The State Visit has been altered to take into account the General Election campaign which leads up to the vote on July 4th.
However, much of the traditional pomp and ceremony remain and after welcoming their guests, King Charles and Queen Camilla stood alongside them to listen to both national anthems.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe Emperor then accompanied The King on an inspection of the guard.
Embed from Getty ImagesA carriage procession down the Mall then followed with British and Japanese flags hanging from every lamp post.
The Empress of Japan wore a face mask during the procession as she has an allergy to horses.
Embed from Getty ImagesAt Buckingham Palace, The King and Queen hosted The Emperor and Empress for lunch.
Embed from Getty ImagesThe first day of the State Visit will conclude with a glittering State Banquet at Buckingham Palace.
The Princess Royal had been expected to attend but has cancelled all her engagements and duties after suffering a head injury in an incident at her home at Gatcombe Park. Princess Anne remains in hospital where she is being treated for concussion.
