National flags, red lanterns and iconic black London cabs displaying pictures of China are ready to welcome the first state visit to the United Kingdom by a Chinese president in 10 years.

As President Xi Jinping starts his trip officially on Tuesday, Chinese national flags are flying in The Mall near Buckingham Palace and also on Horse Guards Parade.

In central London's Chinatown, hundreds of traditional Chinese red lanterns have been hung along colorfully decorated streets.