TOKYO, Japan (Reuters) — Tens of thousands of people flocked to the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on Friday (December 23) to wish Japan’s Emperor Akihito a happy 83rd birthday.
The Imperial Household Agency said more than 33,000 people gathered at the palace before noon, the biggest turnout in Emperor Akihito’s 28-year-long reign, as this year may be the last year they hold a mass celebration for him.
“There are only few days left in this year. I hope the new year will be cheerful and calm, I wish you all to be healthy and happy,” Akihito said.
In August, Akihito said he worried that age may make it difficult for him to fully carry out his duties, remarks widely seen as suggesting he wants to abdicate, a step unprecedented in modern Japan.
Emperor Akihito greeted the sea of people who waved Japanese flags, and addressed Thursday’s (December 22) fire in Niigata that engulfed about 140 houses and forced families from the surrounding 363 houses to evacuate.
“There was a big fire in Niigata amid strong winds. I hope the many who were forced to flee from their homes don’t become ill in the cold weather,” said Akihito.
The emperor is scheduled to receive official greetings from the heads of the three branches of government, including Japan’s Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.
The Japanese emperor has no political role but is considered a symbol of the state. His duties include greeting foreign dignitaries and travelling abroad, visiting nursery schools and disaster-hit regions.