Prince Hisahito meets Bhutanese King

Aug 21 (NHK) - Japan's Prince Hisahito has paid a courtesy call on the King and Queen of Bhutan.

Prince Hisahito became second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne following the enthronement of his uncle, Emperor Naruhito, in May.

His parents, Crown Prince and Princess Akishino, accompanied the 12-year-old prince on a visit to Bhutan's political and religious center "Tashichho Dzong" in the capital, Thimphu, on Monday.

Prince Hisahito, who was wearing a traditional formal kimono, and other members of the Imperial family were welcomed by more than 100 musicians and dancers in the traditional costumes of Bhutan.

The three walked on a red carpet decorated with colored rice in the shape of flowers, crossing the courtyard to reach the office of King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck.

The Imperial family met the King and his wife, Queen Jetsun Pema, before moving to another room for lunch. Their meeting lasted one hour longer than scheduled.

Crown Prince and Princess Akishino and Prince Hisahito then visited a national archery ground and view a performance of Bhutan's national sport.

Prince Hisahito enjoyed watching two teams compete by shooting arrows at targets from a distance of 140 meters.

He then tried his hand at archery.

Source: ANNnewsCH

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