Japan's Crown Prince and Princess Akishino have attended a welcome event in the Vietnamese capital Hanoi.

The couple arrived in Vietnam on Wednesday. On Thursday, they marked the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the countries.

At the Ho Chi Minh mausoleum, which houses the remains of Vietnam's independence movement leader, the pair laid a wreath of flowers and made salutes.

The Crown Prince and Princess then moved to the front garden of the Vietnamese presidential office and were welcomed by Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan.

The couple received a bouquet as children held the national flags of Japan and Vietnam.

The vice president told the couple during their meeting that she hopes the visit will be fruitful and contribute to the friendly relationship between Vietnam and Japan.

Prince Akishino responded that he is deeply grateful for the invitation.

The Crown Prince and Princess then attended a welcome luncheon at a guest house.

Prince Akishino said he wants to use the trip to reflect on the history of exchanges between Japan and Vietnam. He also said he wants to interact with people who will shape the next 50 years so that he can deepen the understanding of the relationship between the two countries.

The couple will attend a ceremony to mark the 50-year milestone later in the day.