Modern Japan-Anglo Diplomacy and Relations between the Imperial Family of Japan and the Royal Family of the Commonwealth

Since modern times, the Imperial Family of Japan, the oldest living monarch, and the Royal Family of the Commonwealth, the largest monarch, have built a special relationship. In particular, the members of the Imperial Family has attended every coronation since the reign of King Edward VII, leaving behind numerous anecdotes that illustrate the deep relationship between the Imperial Family of Japan and the Commonwealth Royal Family. International relations between both countries during these periods were at times very good due to the Anglo-Japanese alliance, but at other times extremely acrimonious due to the Second World War. However, the Imperial Family of Japan and the Commonwealth Royal Family have overcome a period of unfortunate and developed a deep relationship. So much so that at every coronation, it is pointed out that the Imperial Family of Japan is treated exceptionally well than other monarchies, despite Japan being a non-white, non-Christian country. The current friendship between the two countries is not only due to policy reciprocity between the prime minister or government but also, to a lesser extent, to royal diplomacy. What significance do exchanges between royals have in bilateral relations? Using primary resources in Japanese and English, and international relations theory, this paper looks at the involvement of the Imperial Family of Japan in a total of five Commonwealth coronations, from King Edward VII to His Royal Majesty King Charles III, and examines the friendly relations between the two countries from the perspective of the royal diplomacy.