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Japanese Emperor Akihito gave his annual New Year greeting on Friday (January 2), saying he hoped for a better year for the country and calling for peace and happiness around the world.
Thousands of well wishers gathered for the address.
As he stepped out on to the bullet-proof balcony of the palace, many burst into cheers of "Long live the Emperor" as they waved the Japanese flag.
2015 marks 70 years since the end of World War II.
While the Emperor is active as a figurehead for the nation, he rarely addresses the public except on occasions such as his birthday, the New Year's Day message and before overseas trips.
