During the "Japan - Crosscurrents of Courtly Exchange" conference at Windsor Castle on February 14-15, 2023, Professor Antony Best presented his research on the evolution of Anglo-Japanese royal relations throughout the twentieth century. His paper explored the pivotal role of the royal courts in sealing the relationship between the two countries during the alliance period and how they continued to serve as a valuable avenue for diplomacy until the outbreak of the second Sino-Japanese War in 1937.
Furthermore, the paper delved into the degree to which the ties between the two courts contributed to the slow return to "normal" diplomatic relations during the post-war era, ultimately culminating in Emperor Akihito's state visit to Britain in 1998. Professor Best's research sheds light on the complex and evolving relationship between the Anglo-Japanese courts and their impact on the diplomatic ties between these two nations over the course of the twentieth century.
Formation of the Anglo-Japanese alliance (1902), Honolulu Museum of Art
During a conversation with a knowledgeable individual regarding the current situation on Anglo-Japanese relations, I asked several questions. In response to my first question regarding the influence of establishing diplomatic relations between the royal courts of Japan and the UK on the country or people, he stated that the evidence would suggest that the royal relationship resonates more with the Japanese public than with the British. He highlighted the crowds that greeted the Prince of Wales in 1922 and the Queen in 1975 as examples. However, he also noted that the relationship had been troubled for Britain since 1945 due to the POW issue.
Regarding the power relationship between the two courts, I asked whether he believed it to be equal and if it changed before and after WW2. In response, he shared that the relationship was unequal and weighted in Britain's favor during the first alliance period before the king bestowed the Garter on Meiji. However, from the time of the Garter Mission onwards, it became more equal in formal terms.
Lastly, I inquired about how the relationship between the two courts might differ as both countries have come to a new reign in recent years. He responded by stating that we would have to wait and see. The next important step would be the reannouncement of the date of the emperor's state visit, which was cancelled in 2020 due to the pandemic. He also mentioned that it's important to watch out for whether the Garter is given to the new emperor, which could indicate whether the relationship will continue on an even keel.
In conclusion, the relationship between the Anglo-Japanese royal courts has played a significant role on sealing the relationship between the two countries and its impact on their diplomatic ties throughout the twentieth century and potential for shaping the future relationship.