Tens of thousands of people gathered Saturday at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo to offer New Year's greetings to Emperor Akihito and his family, DPA reported.
"I hope this year will be a good year for you," Akihito told the national flag-waving crowd from a palace balcony protected by bullet-resistant glass.
"My wish for the people at the beginning of the year is happiness and peace in the world," said the 76-year-old who became emperor in 1989.
Among the royal family members accompanying Akihito on the balcony were Empress Michiko, Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako.
Out of concern for Akihito's health, the monarch's appearances on the balcony were reduced to five from the traditional seven.
Members of the public are allowed two opportunities during the year to approach the palace: January 2 and December 23, the emperor's birthday.