Duke of Cambridge Spends First Day in Japan

The Duke of Cambridge has arrived in Tokyo for the start of his visits to Japan and China.

Shown around the city by Tokyo’s Governor, Yoichi Masuzoe, the rainy weather didn’t appear to dampen the spirits of the royal visitor as he went on a boat cruise across Tokyo Bay to reach his first destination, the site of the 2020 Olympic Games.

Dozens of school children and fans waited patiently in the rain with Japanese and British flags for the Prince to reach his next engagement at the Hama Rikyu Gardens. He happily shook hands and chatted briefly with them.

Prince William and Governor Masuzoe participated in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony overseen by the former grand master of the Urasenke, Dr Genshitsu Sen, in the Nakajima Tea House. The Duke was served green tea and a plate of delicate cakes before a walk around the gardens, which used to belong to the Shogun Tokugawa family centuries ago.

Prince William was also given some gifts during the visit to the Tea House: crackers, a book about the tea ceremony, and a modern tea bowl decorated with a horse for Prince George. Dr Sen said that the Duke “seemed to enjoy himself” and “seemed to be a very straight, honest and kind young man.”

Filed under The United Kingdom
Tagged Japan, Official Visit, The Duke of Cambridge.