Showing support

This is probably the photo of the year. Amazing with the background, the Emperor in average Joe clothes and this is where the comeback starts. Awesome.

noticed no bodyguards either... would love a panoramic angle to see it better.

noticed no bodyguards either...

I see 3 NPA bodyguards in Frame and possibly 1 IHA staffer...

I think these type of personal visits by the Japanese royal family to devastated areas in Tohoku has and will help people cope during these trying times.

Wow... I didn't expect full ancient imperial garbs or anything... but he looks like a jogger. I'm kind of shocked.

I see 3 NPA bodyguards in Frame and possibly 1 IHA staffer...

Yeah the bald guy in grey left, the woman in the back and the girl on he right right?

I see 3 NPA bodyguards in Frame and possibly 1 IHA staffer...

Yeah, you kinda missed the most obvious: the RGA camouflaged as a flipped-over boat on the far right.

I think these type of personal visits by the Japanese royal family to devastated areas in Tohoku has and will help people cope during these trying times.

Got to agree, even if the role is no more than symbolic nowadays, this is still a strong symbol for many. If they can give some strength to people's will, then this is positive.

With or without bodyguards, Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko are simply perfect on this pix. No doubt that the people of this devastated city will appreciate their support visit.

Why do they look like they are smiling?

His quick opening of the summer residence in Nasushiobara to evacuees was also a very magnanimous gesture, that must have horrified his minders at the Imperial Household Agency. Like the revered Thai King Bhumibol, Japan's emperor is showing that he actually cares for his people, unlike 99% of the politicians, industrialists and bureaucrats here...

Fredster was on security detail in a boat with a sniper rifle and a translator...and binoculars.

@Hawkeye Yeah I'm sure people who lost loved ones and everything they owned are now to cope more adequately because two figureheads came and viewed the destruction.

That's right, people will very likely feel uplifted by the physical presence of the Emperor and Empress of Japan. Figureheads serving a meaningful purpose as a symbol of the nation for its people.

And, a great photograph.

During trying times, each person finds strength and the will to move forward in different ways. To the usual naysayers, please try not to be so critical. Healing comes in many forms and all forms have value.