Belgian royals host Japanese emperor and empress, showcasing jewels and debuting princes

Japan's Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako recently concluded a significant state visit to Belgium, marking the 150th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The imperial couple spent initial private days with the Belgian royal family at the Castle of Ciergnon before engaging in official ceremonies from June 23-25 at the opulent Royal Castle of Laeken in Brussels.

The highlight of the visit was a grand state banquet hosted by King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium. The lavish event, held at the sprawling Laeken Castle, a complex featuring underground tunnels, secret train stations, and extensive gardens, was attended by 160 guests. The culinary experience was provided by students from the prestigious Ter Groene Poorte institute in Bruges.

This state banquet served as a significant debut for the four Belgian princes: Elisabeth (24), Gabriel (22), Emmanuel (20), and Eléonore (18), who participated in such a high-profile diplomatic event for the first time. The occasion was also a dazzling display of royal jewelry.

Queen Mathilde wore the Tiara of the Nine Provinces, a classic diamond piece gifted to Princess Astrid of Sweden upon her marriage in 1926. Empress Masako complemented her Armani Privé gown, which featured Japanese fan and lotus flower embroidery, with the Honeysuckle Diamond Tiara, formerly belonging to Princess Chichibu. Crown Princess Elisabeth notably wore the laurel tiara of Brabant, adorned with 631 diamonds, while her younger sister, Princess Eléonore, debuted a newly acquired diamond diadem.