Japan’s Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako arrived at an airport in Belgium on Saturday after completing their official visit to the Netherlands.
Following a musical band performance, the Imperial couple were welcomed by Princess Elisabeth, first in line to the Belgian throne, together with an honor guard.
It was the first time Princess Elisabeth had taken part in the reception of state guests.
The Imperial couple shook hands and exchanged words with the princess.
The Emperor and Empress then departed for the Royal Castle of Ciergnon in the south, which the royal family uses as a retreat.
Japan’s Imperial family and Belgium’s royal family have enjoyed close ties for many years.
The Imperial couple will stay at the castle until Monday.
They will attend a welcome ceremony as state guests at the square in front of the Royal Palace in Brussels on Tuesday, and a banquet hosted by King Philippe and Queen Mathilde in the evening.
On Wednesday, the Emperor is scheduled to visit a university that received support from Japan after its library was destroyed during World War One.