New Year greeting at the Imperial Palace

Twice a year, the inner precincts of the Imperial Palace are opened to the general public, who turn up in a flag-waving mass to catch a glimpse of the Emperor and his family. If you missed out on the Emperor's birthday on December 23, you can head there on January 2 instead to receive a customary New Year greeting. The Imperial family are scheduled to make five appearances on the palace balcony during the morning and afternoon: at 10.10am, 11am, 11.50am, 1.30pm and 2.20pm.