Princess Alexandra of Luxembourg fills in for her mother on first royal visit to Japan

The 26-year-old princess stepped into the royal spotlight on the four-day official state visit to Japan since her mother Grand Duchess Maria Teresa has a profound fear of flying and thus was unable to make the trip. Photo: Cour Grand-Ducale de Luxembourg

Princess Alexandra of Luxembourg looked on as her father Grand Duke Henri kissed the hand of Empress Michiko, who was joined by her husband Emperor Akihito. Photo: Cour Grand-Ducale de Luxembourg

Princess Alexandra was seen with Crown Prince Narhito and his wife Crown Princess Masako during the official welcoming ceremony. Photo: Cour Grand-Ducale de Luxembourg

Princess Alexandra, the only girl of Grand Duke Henri and Grand Duchess Maria Teresa's five children, took on the responsibility with aplomb as she attended a string of engagements. Photo: Cour Grand-Ducale de Luxembourg

Empress Michiko applauded alongside the Luxembourg royals during a meeting in Tsuchiura. Photo: © SIP / Charles Caratini

A poised Princess Alexandra sat alongside her father Grand Duke Henri during a chat with Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko. The Luxembourg visit took place days before it was confirmed that the Emperor will step down in 2019. Photo: Cour Grand-Ducale de Luxembourg

Wearing a pearl tiara and bright pink gown with a lace jacket, Princess Alexandra curtsied to Emperor Akihito during a state dinner in the European royal guests' honor. Photo: © SIP / Charles Caratini

Seated at the head table during the official white-tie dinner were, left to right: Empress Michiko, Grand Duke Henri, Emperor Akihito and Princess Alexandra. Photo: © SIP / Charles Caratini

Princess Alexandra and Empress Michiko seemed to get along very well at a concert held at Akasaka Palace. Photo: © SIP Jean-Christophe Verhaegen