Crown Prince Ashihino and Crown Princess Kiko received a warm welcome by local people standing and waving flags along small streets in the old quarter.

They took a walk around major tourist destinations in the old quarter, including Cau Bridge which is considered a cultural symbol of Vietnam and Japan dating back to the 17th century.

At a reception, Phan Viet Cuong, secretary of the Quang Nam provincial Party Committee, briefed the distinguished guests on the results of cooperation between Quang Nam and Japan.

So far the Japanese government has funded cooperation projects in Quang Nam with a total ODA capital of nearly US$830 million.

Japanese firms have invested in 18 projects valued at more than US$139 million in Quang Nam, mainly in the fields of industry, tourism and services.

In the first six months of this year, nearly 10,000 Japanese visitors chose Quang Nam as part of their destinations.

Since 2020, Japanese non-governmental organizations have provided Quang Nam with a total aid capital of more than US$1 million to help solve problems related to health, education, and craft making.

Cuong expressed his hope that the Crown Prince and Crown Princess would provide continued support for cooperative relations between Vietnam and Japan in general and between Quang Nam and Japan in particular.

Crown Prince Akishino was impressed with the friendliness and hospitality of local people, as well as major tourist landmarks in Hoi An, saying this was the first time he has come to the ancient town, though he had previously travelled to Vietnam.

“I am very happy to return to Vietnam on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of establishing diplomatic relations between Japan and Vietnam. This is the first time I have visited Quang Nam and Hoi An…. I've been told a lot about Hoi An so I’m excited to visit the ancient town today,” said the Crown Prince.