Tokyo, thousands on the street for the Naruhito and Masako imperial parade
Originally, the event was scheduled for October 22 last. The Imperial House Agency has decided to postpone it because of typhoon Hagibis. Selfie sticks, bottles and banners are forbidden and even cheering.
Tokyo (AsiaNews / Agencies) - Thousands of celebrating Japanese yesterday flocked to the streets of central Tokyo to witness the passage of the royal couple, on the occasion of a parade celebrating the enthronement of Emperor Naruhito.
The monarch and his wife Masako greeted and smiled at the crowd from a convertible car, while supporters applauded, waved small flags and took photos along the 4.6 km route - from the Royal Palace to the Akasaka residence.
Originally, the event was scheduled for October 22 last. The Imperial House Agency decided to postpone it because of typhoon Hagibis, which hit Japan on the 12th of the month. The storm caused the death of nearly 90 people and extensive damage.
In recent days, in anticipation of the imperial parade, the authorities had prepared massive security measures: the police had set up 40 checkpoints around the area where the ceremony took place. Selfie sticks, bottles and banners - and even cheering - weren't allowed. The inhabitants of the skyscrapers along the road were advised not to look down from the windows or balconies.
Naruhito succeeded his father Akihito on May 1, following the abdication of the emeritus emperor. The new imperial era called Reiwa - which means "beautiful harmony" - will last throughout his reign. Last month, the emperor ascended the Throne of Chrysanthemum in a solemn ceremony.
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