Duchess of Edinburgh Embraces Japanese Tradition, Goes Barefoot at Koyasan temple
Koyasan, Japan – Sophie, Duchess of Edinburgh, demonstrated cultural sensitivity and comfort during a visit to Koyasan, Japan, removing her shoes as custom dictates while touring sacred sites. The duchess paired the respectful gesture with a frequently worn, versatile jacket, highlighting a practical approach to royal engagements.
The Royal Family shared details of the visit on Instagram, explaining that the Duchess and other members of the royal party were guided through the historic temple town by local children participating in a British Council programme. This initiative aims to support KoyasanS welcoming of international visitors while preserving its 1,200-year-old traditions as the center of Shingon Buddhism in Japan.
During the wider Japan trip, the royal couple have also met with Crown Prince and Crown Princess Akishino and encountered a life-sized Hello Kitty figure, a beloved Japanese cultural icon. The visit comes during a busy period for the Royal family, following the funeral of Katharine, Duchess of Kent, and a recent US state visit welcoming President Trump and First Lady Melania to the UK.