Japan’s Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako have wrapped up a trip to Britain with a stop in Oxford, where they both studied in their youth.
The couple toured the grounds of Balliol College on Friday. The Empress studied there for two years during her time working with the Foreign Ministry.
The Emperor previously said that the Empress’ time at Oxford left a strong impression in her heart.
He said she was moved by the beautiful scenery and the warmth of the people.
The Emperor also studied at Oxford for two years, in Merton College.
His experience of living with 150 other students in the dorms apparently had a major impact on his life.
In a memoir, he wrote that he enjoyed a degree of freedom that he could not experience in Japan, such as going out to pubs and discos with friends.
The Emperor thanked the British people for their kind words and hospitality.
He said he hopes their visit will strengthen the friendship between Japan and Britain going forward.