Tens of thousands of Japanese welcomed the year 2010 by gathering outside the palace in Tokyo to hear Emperor Akihito deliver his speech of peace and goodwill for the new year.
AP Photo/Shizuo Kambayashi
“I’m pleased to celebrate this new year together with you,” the 76-year-old Emperor said, speaking from the balcony protected by bulletproof glass.
“Marking the beginning of this year, I wish people happiness and the world peace,” Akihito said as crowds shouted “Banzai” (long live) and waved Japanese flags.
The Emperor continued, “last year, many people faced hardships due to the continuing severe economic conditions, and my heart goes out to them. In this new year that we are greeting, I hope that everyone will help one another and support each other to overcome the challenges they are facing.”
Joining him on the balcony were his wife, Empress Michiko, and the Crown Princely couple, Naruhito and Masako. All four waved to the crowds, which estimated nearly 50,000 of mostly senior citizens.
Also on Friday, the Imperial Household Agency released new photos of the entire family, including Prince Akishino, Princess Kiko and their three children, as well as Princess Aiko, daughter of Naruhito and Masako.
Such pictures are distributed during the first of the new year.
Reuters/Imperial Household Agency Handout
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