The upcoming visit to Britain by Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko exemplifies their continuous endeavors to foster international friendship over the past 60 years, during which they have traveled to more than 50 countries.

The Emperor, who attended Queen Elizabeth II's coronation on his first trip abroad in 1953 as the then 19-year-old Crown Prince, will attend events celebrating the 60th anniversary of the queen's accession to the throne during a five-day visit through May 20.

The tour will be the 16th foreign visit by the Emperor since he ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne, and the 39th including visits he made as Crown Prince. It will also be his eighth visit to Britain.