Japan's imperial couple plant tree at Rideau Hall

Source: http://www.cbc.ca/canada/story/2009/07/06/japan-royal-visit006.html (CBC Canada)

The emperor and empress of Japan helped plant a Canadian hemlock tree on the grounds of Rideau Hall Monday to symbolize Canadian-Japanese relations.

Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko spent about an hour chatting with Gov. Gen. Michaëlle Jean and her husband, Jean-Daniel Lafond, at Jean's official residence.

Following the meeting, the couple — accompanied by dozens of Japanese journalists, security officials and aides — walked across a section of Rideau Hall's manicured lawns to plant a Canadian hemlock.

The tree, also called an eastern hemlock, was chosen because it grows in both Canada and Japan, said a statement from the Governor General's office.

The couple, both 75, each tossed shovelfuls of dirt at the base of the tree as onlookers holding Canadian and Japanese flags applauded. Jean told the couple their names would be engraved on the shovel's blade.

The tree "symbolizes the friendship and solidarity … between Japan and Canada," Jean told the crowd. "It will grow very tall … 60 to 80 feet. It’s going to be a very strong Canadian-Japanese tree."

Jean and her husband will host a state dinner in honour of the imperial couple on Monday night.

The emperor and empress arrived in Ottawa Friday for a visit to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the start of Canada-Japan diplomatic relations. Their visit also includes stops in Toronto, Vancouver, Victoria and Hawaii.

Akihito, who rarely travels outside his country, hasn't been to Canada since 1953. At the time, he was heir to the throne and was sent to help repair relations with Canada that were severed during the Second World War.