Crown Prince Tupouto'a-Lavaka presented his Letter of Credence as the non-resident Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Tonga to Japan, to HM Emperor Akihito of Japan at the Imperial Palace, Tokyo, on January 15.

The Crown Prince was accompanied on his visit to Japan by Princess Nanasipau'u, their son Prince Ata, and his secretary, Kilisimasi 'Aho.

While in Japan the Crown Prince visited a church of the Tongan Community at the Perfector of Gunma Ken on January 16 and met members of the Tongan community in Japan, including students, sports people and others who have settled in Japan.

The secretary of the Tongan Community in Japan, Takai Palei, reported that Crown Prince Tupouto'a-Lavaka and Princess Nanasipau'u who arrived in Tokyo on January 10, were welcomed by Vaha'i Fefeka and members of the Tongan community at the Hotel Imperial.

A church service was lead by Rev. Vanisi Takeifanga, assisted by Nofomuli Taumoefolau, Sinali Latu and Feleti Ma'u.

On January 16 the royal party visited a church of the Tongan Community, Kolosi'i 'i Petani at the prefecture of Gunma Ken in central Japan, 100km northwest of Tokyo, where Tongans from various parts of Japan had gathered to meet the visitors.

The Tongan church is at the property of Vaha'i Fefeka who served a luncheon at his home when two ta'olunga were performed. The MC was Mafi Fatongiatau, Takai Palei.

There was also an opportunity for the Tongan Community to ask the Crown Prince for clarification on a number of issues, such as dual nationality, and the land issue.

Mafi Fatongiatau reported that the gathering was concluded with cultural performance by the members of the Tongan Community, with Vaha'i Fefeka as the vahenga.