The New Year's General Congratulatory Palace Visit Held First Time In Two Years

TOKYO, JAPAN- JANUARY 2: (NO SALES TO JAPANESE BROADCASTERS) (COMPILATION) Japan's Emperor Naruhito says “Happy New Year. I am concerned for the many people who are still suffering from the Noto Peninsula earthquake and the heavy rain disasters that have occurred in various areas. I know that you are going through a lot of hardships, but I hope that this year will be a peaceful and good year for all of you” during the New Year's General Congratulatory Palace Visit at the Imperial Palace on January 2, 2025 in Tokyo, Japan. This year's event was the first in two years. Their Majesties the Empress Masako and Empress Aiko, the Emperor Emeritus and the Empress Emeritus Michiko, the Prince Akishino and the Princess Kiko and the Princess Kako were also in attendance. According to the Imperial Household Agency, 60,690 people visited the event. (Footage by Fuji TV Editorial/Getty Images)