Finally, the big moment happened...the Emperor walked into the reviewing area with his family. As if recognizing the importance of the man, even the rain stopped. Emperors are some pretty powerful folks...

The crowd went wild, and waved their flags with gusto.


Wave those flags


Emperor Akihito spoke for about 4-5 minutes, giving his New Year's greetings and well-wishes to the people. While he spoke, I was struck by the polite reverence that the crowd gave him. In the US of A, there would probably be protesters of every ilk pitching their grievances...it was a nice change.


HELLLOOOOOO TOKYOOOOO!!! WHAT UP, MY PEEPS!?!?!