On Saturday, June 6, 2026, the Kansai University European Center held a seminar as part of its “Discovering Europe” series. The Center welcomed Associate Professor Adrien Carbonnet of the Faculty of Arts (Japanese and Korean Studies) at KU Leuven (Belgium), who delivered a lecture on the occasion.

The seminar examined Prince Arisugawa Taruhito’s visit to Belgium in 1882 and its significance within the broader framework of Japan–Belgium diplomatic history. Drawing on a meticulous analysis of primary sources—including official correspondence and personal diaries preserved in diplomatic and royal archives in both Japan and Belgium—Associate Professor Carbonnet demonstrated that, although the visit had been arranged at short notice, the Belgian authorities extended the highest level of hospitality. This reception was underpinned by Belgium’s economic diplomacy as a neutral state, as well as by a strategic diplomatic intention to recognize Japan as an equal actor in the international arena.
The analysis further established that this visit constituted the first official overseas visit by a member of the Japanese Imperial House and marked the starting point of the enduring exchange between the Japanese Imperial Family and the Belgian Royal Family.
The seminar concluded with a question-and-answer session, during which numerous specialized questions were raised. The discussion remained active until the close of the session, reflecting the strong engagement of the participants.

In addition, the Kansai University European Center will soon celebrate its 20th anniversary. 
Building on the outcomes of this seminar, the Center will continue to promote the dissemination of knowledge on Europe and to advance international academic exchange.