President bids farewell to Japanese imperial couple

The President introduced the guests to the unique culture of Hue, the former capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen Dynasty, which was recognised by UNESCO as a world cultural heritage site in 1993.

He noted that many relics in Hue have been preserved and restored with support of the Japanese Government and experts from Waseda and Tokyo Universities.

Thua Thien-Hue has also established cooperative ties with many Japanese localities, including the ancient royal capital cities of Nara and Kyoto, and Yokohama.

During their stay in Hue, Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko are scheduled to visit the commemorative site for Phan Boi Chau, a patriotic scholar who launched the Dong Du (Travel East) movement in early 20th century, which encouraged Vietnamese youngsters to go to Japan to study.

President Tran Dai Quang said that a stele in Fukuroi city in Shizuoka Prefecture to commemorate doctor Asaba Sakitaro, who supported the Dong Du movement, is evidence of the fine friendship between Vietnam and Japan in the 20th century.

He said he hopes Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko will take time to enjoy the ancient and peaceful Hue city, and experience the similarity in culture of the two countries through Nha nhac (Hue imperial court music).

The Emperor and Empress expressed their appreciation for the warm and sincere sentiment and welcome of the Vietnamese President and people.

They said they are looking forward to enjoying Nha nhac, which also shares similar origins with Japanese court music, and visit historical sites reflecting the friendship and cooperation between Japan and Vietnam.