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 TOKYO (AP) - Thousands of well-wishers waving Japanese flags gathered Tuesday at the Imperial Palace for a series of rare appearances by Emperor Akihito and the royal family marking the new year.
Crown Princess Masako, who is recovering from a stress-induced illness, accompanied other members of the royal family on only three of their seven appearances on the palace's glass-enclosed balcony, according to Kyodo News agency.
"I am truly happy to celebrate the new year with you," Akihito told the crowd of about 17,000 people at his first morning appearance. "I wish for the happiness of people in our country and peace in the world."
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