Crown Prince Fumihito and his wife Crown Princess Kiko returned to Japan on Saturday after a trip to Poland and Finland that started in late June.

It was the first overseas trip by members of the Japanese imperial family since the May 1 ascension of Emperor Naruhito, which subsequently made Crown Prince Fumihito next in line to the throne.

In Poland, the couple met with Polish President Andrzej Duda in Warsaw. They also participated in a commemorative reception at the Japanese ambassador's residence along with people who have devoted themselves to the development of bilateral relations.

This year, Japan's diplomatic ties with both Poland and Finland marked a 100th anniversary.

Following their visit to Poland, the prince and princess traveled to Finland and met with President Sauli Niinisto. They also observed a "neuvola" facility, part of the Finnish childcare system.

Crown Prince Fumihito opted to fly commercial on the trip, in contrast to Emperor Naruhito's practice while crown prince of using a government jet for overseas travel.

[Pool photo]