Duke Duchess Edinburgh Visit UNESCO Buddhist Sites Japan

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are undertaking a significant four-day state visit to Japan, engaging in cultural and spiritual experiences that highlight both countries' traditions. Their visit included a notable stop at Koyasan, a sacred mountain town and spiritual center of Shingon Buddhism, where they were warmly welcomed by local children learning English through a British Council program. At Koyasan, they participated in religious customs, such as rotating the Rokkaku Kyouzou sutra repository and exploring the Danjo Garan complex, symbolizing their respect for Japan's spiritual heritage. Additionally, they visited the Soji-in Temple, a 12th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site, where they met local officials and head priests, receiving gifts and observing temple customs like shoe changing. Throughout their trip, they have also engaged in public discussions on issues like gender equality and visited the Ukraine Mental Health Exchange Centre in Tokyo, demonstrating a commitment to global and humanitarian concerns. The royal couple presented themselves with both respect and style, embodying cultural sensitivity while fostering international goodwill on behalf of King Charles and Queen Camilla.