The Duke and Duchess of Edinburgh are set to travel to Japan later this month, with their visit coinciding with US President Donald Trump’s historic second State Visit to the UK. The clash of events means that the couple – who will be in Japan between September 18th and 22nd – will be noticeably absent from all engagements surrounding President Trump’s visit, set to take place between September 17th and 19th.

Sophie and Edward’s visit will celebrate the strong bilateral relationship between the UK and Japan. The Duke, 61, and Duchess, 60, will undertake engagements in Osaka and Tokyo focused on themes which resonate in both countries, including youth opportunity, sustainability and innovation, educating the next generation, and women in leadership. During the visit, the couple will visit the UK and Japanese Pavilions at EXPO 2025, Osaka, Kansai.

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As Japan’s largest international event this decade, the aim is to bring together people and innovations from around the world to address global issues.

Prior to their visit, Edward will be in Papua New Guinea between September 14th and 17th – meaning that he will need to travel to Japan from this trip.

This visit, which he will take without Sophie, will be carried out to attend celebrations marking the 50th anniversary of Papua New Guinea’s independence from Australia.

Edward will attend a dawn flag-raising ceremony and a State Dinner, to mark the occasion.

During his visit. Edward will, on behalf of the King, present new Regimental Colours to the First Royal Pacific Islands Regiment and confer 50th Independence Anniversary King’s Medals.

These will be awarded to individuals who have made significant contributions to Papua New Guinea.