The Emperor of Japan turned 76 on Wednesday. In a traditional gesture of gratitude, he greeted crowds of well-wishers at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.
Under clear blue skies, thousands of people poured into the Palace compound as the gates opened at around 9:30 in the morning.
The Emperor, Empress, Crown Prince and Princess, along with Prince and Princess Akishino appeared on the palace balcony three times in the morning to greet the visitors.
The Emperor thanked the people for coming to see him on his birthday. He said 2009 marks his 20th year on the throne and his 50th wedding anniversary. He expressed concern for those who are suffering in the current economic climate.
He also wished everyone good health and a happy new year.
The Imperial Household Agency says a record of nearly 30,000 people came to the palace grounds to congratulate the Emperor on his birthday this year.
Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama, the heads both houses of the Diet, foreign ambassadors and other public figures also paid their respects to the Emperor on this day.
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