Emperor Akihito (C), Empress Michiko and Crown Prince Naruhito (L) wave
to well-wishers at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo January 2, 2002.
Emperor Akihito and other imperial family members offered the annual
New Year's greeting to the public from the palace balcony. Crown
Princess Masako, who gave birth last month to her first child, was
absent. REUTERS/Kimimasa Mayama

KM/PB