Emperor Akihito offered New Year's greetings to tens of thousands of well-wishers who gathered at the Imperial Palace on Saturday.
"I hope this year will be a good year for each of you," the Emperor said from the balcony of the Chowa-Den wing. "I wish for the happiness of the people and peace in the world at the beginning of the year."
Around 79,300 people gathered at the palace, about 3,500 more than last year.
Empress Michiko and other Imperial family members, including Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako, as well as Prince Akishino and his wife, Princess Kiko, joined the Emperor on the balcony.
A total of five greeting sessions were held.
