The Crown Prince arrived at Windsor Castle, the official residence of Queen Elizabeth II, on Friday night after a welcoming ceremony at London's Heathrow Airport.
The Crown Prince was received by the queen and Prince Philip, after which the three dined privately together, according to the Imperial Household Agency.
He will stay at the castle until Sunday, attending a banquet hosted by the queen on Saturday evening, the agency said.
The Crown Prince is in Britain to attend the opening events for the yearlong Japan 2001 festival, showcasing Japanese culture and lifestyles.
The castle, the world's largest royal residence, is used by the queen during weekends and as a state guesthouse.
The Crown Prince, who is serving as honorary president of the festival, is making the visit alone as the Crown Princess has canceled the trip because of her pregnancy, formally announced last week.
The Crown Prince was scheduled to attend the Matsuri carnival in London's Hyde Park, the opening event of Japan 2001, on Sunday. Britain's Prince Charles was expected to join him at some stage.
The two princes are joint patrons of Japan 2001.
Organizers say the weekend-long Matsuri carnival will offer the public a mix of traditional Japanese activities, everything from martial arts and folk dancing to origami.