Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako to Visit Netherlands and Belgium

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan will make official visits to the Netherlands and Belgium in June 2026. The decision was finalized during a Cabinet meeting on May 12, 2026, following invitations from King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands and King Philippe of Belgium.

The imperial couple is scheduled to depart from Tokyo’s Haneda Airport on June 13 aboard a government plane, traveling first to the Dutch capital of Amsterdam. Following their time in the Netherlands, they will travel to Brussels, the capital of Belgium, on June 20. The couple is expected to return to Japan on June 26.

Diplomatic Agenda and State Activities

During their stay in both European nations, the Emperor and Empress will be received as state guests. Their itinerary includes attending welcome ceremonies and royal banquets. The couple is scheduled to lay flowers at memorials for the war dead in both countries.

The visit to Belgium coincides with the 160th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Japan, and Belgium. This milestone underscores the long-established relationships maintained between the Japanese imperial family and the royal houses of the two nations.

Historical Ties and Previous Visits

The imperial couple has a history of visits to both the Netherlands and Belgium. In 1999, while they were crown prince and princess, the couple made an official visit to Belgium to attend the wedding of then-Crown Prince Philippe.

Their connection to the Netherlands includes a private visit in 2006, during which they were accompanied by their daughter, Princess Aiko. In 2013, they returned to the Netherlands for an official visit to attend the enthronement ceremony of King Willem-Alexander.

This upcoming journey represents a rare multi-country itinerary for the couple. The last time the Emperor and Empress visited more than one country during a single trip was in 2002, when they traveled to Australia and New Zealand.