Prince William set to begin visit to Japan and China

Details of Prince William's visit to Japan and China have been revealed, ahead of the start of his seven-day tour of the two countries.

The Duke of Cambridge -- traveling without wife Kate or son Prince George this trip -- will arrive in Japan on Thursday and then will head to China on March 1, before returning to the U.K. on March 4.

In Japan, highlights from the 32-year-old's itinerary include taking part in a traditional tea ceremony, events around Tokyo including a "sake barrel-breaking ceremony" and visit Fukushima and the northeast region of the country that was hit by the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, as well as meeting with survivors.

William's China schedule includes visiting the Forbidden City, meeting with a "Senior Chinese leader" in Beijing, giving a speech at a wildlife conservation conference and watching children learn to play soccer at a secondary school.

This will be the duke's first visit to both countries.

Last week, ahead of the trip, William released a video with best wishes for the Chinese New Year, speaking in Mandarin at the beginning and end of the message.