WASHINGTON, D.C.: Donald Trump is accused at times of acting like a king, but when the US president becomes the first foreign leader to meet Japan's newly enthroned Emperor Naruhito next week, he can expect truly royal treatment from eager-to-please allies.

The decision by Japan to put Trump at the head of the line for Naruhito illustrates the unique bond between the one-time bitterest of enemies, while delivering rival China a timely reminder that the United States is not alone in Asia.