Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako of Japan conducted their first official state visit to Mongolia from July 6 to July 13, 2025, as guests of the Mongolian government. The visit marked the first time a reigning Japanese emperor officially visited Mongolia. During their eight-day stay, the imperial couple participated in a series of diplomatic and cultural events aimed at strengthening bilateral relations. They attended a welcome ceremony in Ulaanbaatar, where they met Mongolian President and First Lady, as well as former sumo grand champions Asashoryu, Harumafuji, and Hakuho. The Emperor and Empress paid respects at a memorial cenotaph dedicated to approximately 1,700 Japanese nationals who died in detention in Mongolia after World War II, marking the first such tribute by a reigning emperor. The visit also included cultural engagements such as the Emperor's visit to the Chinggis Khaan National Museum and the Mongol Kosen College of Technology, which is modeled after Japanese technical colleges. The Emperor toured water supply facilities in Ulaanbaatar supported by Japanese aid and interacted with local children at schools incorporating Japanese-style education. They attended the opening ceremony of Naadam, Mongolia's largest traditional sporting festival featuring wrestling, horse racing, and archery, and observed horse races on the Mongolian steppe. At a state dinner hosted by the Mongolian President and First Lady, Emperor Naruhito performed on his viola alongside the Mongolian State Morin Khuur Symphony Orchestra, playing the Japanese folk song "Hamabe no Uta" and Mongolian music. The couple also named two rare wild horses "Tomodachi" (Friend) and "Ai" (Love) during their visit to a national park. Upon concluding their visit, the Emperor expressed gratitude for the warm hospitality and reflected on experiencing Mongolia's rich history, culture, and natural beauty. The visit underscored the deepening friendship and cooperation between Japan and Mongolia.