University of Oxford
University of Oxford
06/29/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 06/29/2024 04:45
Japanese Emperor and Empress visit their alma mater
Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako paid a special visit to the University of Oxford.
Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan visited their alma mater, the University of Oxford, on Friday 28 June.
The imperial couple have a special connection with Oxford having spent years at the collegiate University as students. During the visit, Their Majesties stopped at Balliol College where the Empress studied International Relations, and at Merton College where the Emperor studied for an MLitt in History.
Planting a cherry blossom tree at Merton College
During the visit, they also met with Chancellor Lord Chris Patten and Vice Chancellor Professor Irene Tracey CBE FRS FMedSci and college masters.
Oxford University Images / John Cairns
Empress Masako was given an honorary degree by the University during a special ceremony at Convocation House.
Emperor Naruhito delivered a speech during a luncheon hosted by the Chancellor.
At Merton, the imperial couple planted a cherry blossom tree, as a significant element of Japanese culture.
The private visit to Oxford took place on the final day of the Emperor and Empress's visit to the UK, which also included State Visit of His Majesty The King earlier in the week.