Japan's Emperor Naruhito and his family greeted New Year well-wishers at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. The annual appearance, which draws large crowds, saw the Emperor express hopes for peace and dialogue amidst global conflicts and acknowledge recent natural disasters. This event marks a return after cancellations due to a 2024 earthquake and the COVID-19 pandemic in prior years. Princess Aiko also appeared, amidst ongoing national discussions regarding imperial succession rules.