The end of an era drew closer at the Imperial Palace on Sunday as tens of thousands of people gathered to celebrate Emperor Akihito's 85th birthday, which will be his last upon the Chrysanthemum Throne before he steps down next April.
Joined by Empress Michiko and Crown Prince Naruhito, along with five other members of the Imperial family, the Emperor was humble and drew attention to the less fortunate as he addressed the throngs of well-wishers.