Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko will conduct an official nine-day state visit to Paraguay starting Aug. 18, 2026 [1].
The trip aims to strengthen bilateral relations and honor the historical ties between the two nations through the celebration of the Japanese diaspora.
The royal couple is scheduled to arrive in Paraguay on Aug. 18, 2026, and remain in the country until Aug. 26, 2026 [1]. A central component of the itinerary is the attendance of a ceremony on Aug. 21, 2026, marking the 90th anniversary of Japanese immigration to Paraguay [1]. The visit will primarily take place in the capital, Asunción, and will include a visit to the López Palace [1, 2].
This mission marks a return to the region for the prince. Prince Akishino last visited the country 20 years ago [1]. Additionally, the couple's daughter, Princess Mako, visited Paraguay 10 years ago [1].
The trip represents the first foreign visit for the couple since they traveled to Turkey in 2024 [1]. The itinerary is designed to recognize the contributions of the Japanese community in South America, a legacy that began nine decades ago.
While some reports indicated the trip was still under consideration, officials from ANNnewsCH said the visit has been officially decided [1, 2].
“The royal couple will conduct an official nine-day state visit to Paraguay starting August 18, 2026.”
This state visit underscores Japan's commitment to maintaining cultural and diplomatic ties with its emigrant communities in South America. By centering the trip on the 90th anniversary of immigration, the Japanese monarchy reinforces the historical legitimacy and social integration of the Japanese-Paraguayan community while utilizing the royal couple's presence to elevate Paraguay's diplomatic standing in Tokyo.
