They were due to meet with representatives of bereaved families and descendants of former island residents. The visit by the royal couple, both born after the war, is the first to Iwo Jima.

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako pour water on requiem hill as they visit the island of Iwo Jima, which is now officially called Iwo To in Japan, on Monday.

Japan's Emperor Naruhito has visited Iwo Jima to pay tribute to those who died on the island where one of the harshest battles of World War II was fought 80 years ago.

They were due to meet with representatives of bereaved families and descendants of former island residents. The visit by the royal couple, both born after the war, is the first to Iwo Jima.

Japanese Emperor Naruhito, left, and Empress Masako, center, are escorted by a member of Japan Self Defense Force as they arrive at the island of Iwo Jima, now officially called Iwo To in Japan ...