Kim Kardashian says Kanye West marriage is based on friendship

June 21 (UPI) -- Kim Kardashian says the foundation of her marriage to Kanye West is their longtime friendship.

The 36-year-old reality star discussed her relationship with West on Tuesday's episode of The View after celebrating her third wedding anniversary with the 40-year-old rapper in May.

"We started off as friends for so many years," Kardashian said. "We were friends when we were in other relationships and were such a good support system for each other for so long. I think that really helped to be the basis of our relationship."

"We're just such good friends," she gushed. "I know when we're 80 and can hardly move we're just going to be talking and talking forever. We're best friends. I think that's what's just so important for us in our marriage."

Kardashian and West rang in their wedding anniversary May 24, and celebrated the rapper's 40th birthday June 8. The couple were able to "sneak away" and go unrecognized on a trip to Japan for West's birthday.

"I surprised him on a trip to Japan -- a place that he loves to go to get away and get inspiration," Kardashian said on The View. "No one bothered us, it was great."

"It's great to get away when there's just no noise and it's just us. That trip was just really special," she added.

Kardashian had dedicated a sweet message to West on Instagram for his birthday, writing, "Happy Birthday babe I love you so much! You inspire me every day to be a better person! I'm so grateful for you."

The couple share 4-year-old daughter North and 18-month-old son Saint.