CULTURAL EXCHANGE

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh meet the royals – and enjoy a sumo match – in Japan

- REPORT: TRACY SCHAVERIEN

The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh sampled Japanese culture and traditions during a four-day tour of the country last week - their first joint visit there.

Edward and Sophie's packed schedule included meeting Japan's royal family, visiting a Buddhist temple and watching a sumo wrestling match, something the Duchess said she was “very excited” about.

The couple even had an encounter with one of the country’s best-known pop icons, the cartoon character Hello Kitty, who greeted them on the red carpet at the British Embassy.