Why Kate Middleton Missed Japan State Visit After Trooping the Colour [Video]

Kate Middleton wasn’t on hand to help with hosting duties as Prince William, King Charles, Queen Camilla and more royals welcomed the Emperor and Empress of Japan to the U.K.

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako officially kicked off their state visit on June 25. Prince William, 42, greeted the couple at their hotel before heading to Horse Guards Parade in London for the ceremonial welcome with King Charles, 75, and Queen Camilla, 76.

After lunch, a display of items from the Royal Collection and a visit to Westminster Abbey, the Emperor and Empress returned to Buckingham Palace for an evening gala.

Princess Kate’s absence on the first day of Japan’s state visit was expected. Although the Princess of Wales, 42, stepped back into the spotlight for the first time in nearly six months at Trooping the Colour on June 15, the outing for King Charles’ birthday parade did not signal a return to royal work and public life.