Mask-donning journey of Empress Masako within the carriage
The Imperial pair, Emperor Naruhito I. and Empress Masako, have touched down in London, kicking off a grand state visit. King Charles III. and Queen Camilla extend a regal greeting to their Japanese counterparts, who've journeyed across the seas for an extensive stay. The itinerary is chock-full of museum visits, research center tours, and royal banquets. The visit wraps up on Thursday, with a trip to Windsor where the Emperor and Empress will pay their respects at Queen Elizabeth II's grave.
Post the formalities, King Charles III. and Queen Camilla whisked the imperial duo away for a carriage ride down The Mall towards Buckingham Palace, where a private lunch awaited. The monarchs occupied the first carriage, while Camilla and Empress Masako followed suit, both adorned in pristine white. An enjoyable affair for the equestrian-loving Windsors, but a challenging one for Empress Masako, as she battles a persistent allergy to horse hair. A source from Buckingham Palace confirmed to "The Daily Beast" that the empress wore a protective mask during the ride, which she removed only upon safe arrival at the palace.
Two notable absences at the state visit
Princess Anne, an avid horse enthusiast, was nowhere to be found. Her sudden absence was due to an accident on her estate involving a horse, leaving her with a head injury and minor facial wounds. The media reports a blurry memory of the incident for Anne.
Fans of Princess Kate were left disheartened as well. Following her cancer diagnosis and brief appearance at King Charles III.'s birthday parade, she's focused on her recuperation. Her spouse, Prince William, stepped in to attend the official welcome of the Japanese imperial pair.
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During their London visit, the British royal family organized an entertaining event for the Imperial pair, featuring a carriage ride down The Mall. King Charles III. and Queen Camilla welcomed Emperor Naruhito I. and Empress Masako with open arms, despite Empress Masako's allergy to horse hair. News outlets reported that Empress Masako wore a protective mask during the carriage ride to minimize her discomfort.
The visit by the British Royal Family and the Japanese Imperial pair coincided with some notable absences. Princess Anne, an equestrian enthusiast, couldn't attend due to an accident involving a horse on her estate, leaving her with minor injuries. Additionally, fans of Princess Kate were disappointed as she was recovering from a cancer diagnosis and couldn't join the official welcome of the Japanese imperial pair.
Amidst the grand state visit, King Charles III. and Queen Camilla demonstrated their interest in international affairs by hosting their Japanese counterparts, nine years after the last visit by a Japanese emperor to the UK. The tour of London included various cultural and educational events, which showcased the strong bond between the two nations.
