New Emperor to meet public on May 4

NHK -- Mar 05

Japan's Imperial Household Agency has decided to allow members of the public into the Imperial Palace grounds on May 4 to celebrate the enthronement of the new Emperor.

The Agency says the event will be held three days after Crown Prince Naruhito ascends to the throne on May 1. Emperor Akihito is due to abdicate on April 30.

The Agency had initially planned to hold the celebratory event after a ritual scheduled for October 22 to proclaim the new Emperor's enthronement.

But it decided it would be more appropriate to celebrate the enthronement shortly after it takes place.

The Agency decided the new date will make it easier for people to attend the event, as May 4 falls during a 10-day holiday period.

The new Emperor, accompanied by the new Empress and other family members, is to appear on the balcony of the Imperial Palace that day. The Emperor will also address the expected crowds of well-wishers.

Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko will not attend the event.

Mar 05 (ANNnewsCH) - 皇太子さまの即位から3日後に皇居で行われます。 宮内庁は、皇太子さまの即位を祝う一般参賀を5月4日に行うと発表しました。時間や回数は未定で、上皇上皇后となる今の天皇皇后両陛下は出席されません。