Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko talk to wellwishers at the Mackenzie King Estate in Gatineau Park, Que. (Patrick Doyle/Canadian Press)

Japanese Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko toured the Ottawa region Saturday, the first official stop on their visit to Canada.

The royal couple, who arrived in the capital on Friday, began with a visit to the Mackenzie King Estate in Gatineau Park, Que. That was followed by a trip to Ottawa's Experimental Farm, a site known for its rich heritage and agriculture.

The emperor reportedly has a fascination with natural science. He watches nature programs on television, works on his biological studies in his spare time and has become a world expert on the humble goby fish.

The official purpose of the visit is to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the start of Canada-Japan diplomatic relations.

Akihito, who rarely travels outside his country, was followed to Canada by an entourage of nearly 50 Japanese journalists.

Strategic dialogue

Foreign Affairs Minister Lawrence Cannon said he hopes the visit makes a difference in how the two countries operate together.

"We've commenced a strategic dialogue between Canada and Japan and so that means, at the highest level of the public service, we'll be discussing the issues of mutual interest," Cannon said. "So this is an extraordinarily great event."

Akihito, 75, has not been to Canada since 1953, when he was the heir to the throne. He was sent to help repair relations with the country, severed during the Second World War.

For many Canadians of Japanese ancestry, the emperor's return had to be experienced up close.

"I've never seen him in person before, so that was great," said one on-looker.

"He's our symbol, the symbol of Japan," said another.

Akihito plans to meet with members of Canada's Japanese community. He will also meet with Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Governor General Michaëlle Jean before travelling to Toronto, Vancouver and Victoria.

The royal couple will visit Hawaii on the second leg of their North American tour.

With files from The Canadian Press