Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko on Tuesday attended the annual New Year's poetry recital at the Imperial Palace, where poems by members of the Imperial family and the general public were recited in traditional style.
Spring was the theme for this year's recital, and 10 "waka" poems were chosen for recitation from the 23,637 entries sent in by the public, the Imperial Household Agency said.
At the ceremony, the Emperor and Empress sat on one side of the Matsu-no-ma hall, flanked by other members of the Imperial family, including their three children -- Crown Prince Naruhito, Prince Akishino and Princess Nori -- and Prince Akishino's wife, Princess Kiko.