Visit to the Japanese Imperial Palace

Twice a year, on New Years Day-- January 1st, and on December 23rd (the current Emperor Akihito's birthday) the Japanese Imperial Palace opens to the general public to tour a portion of the Imperial grounds and hear the Emperor give a speech. This event was on my bucket list of to-dos while living here in Japan. My family gladly suffered though the crowds and a tour so I could show the kids the Imperial grounds too.

Gabriel was excited to wave his Japanese flag throughout the entire event. 

First security check. 

Sakuradamon Gate 

Original Imperial Palace Building on Imperial grounds in Tokyo. 

Second security point that we had passed through. 

Sakuradamon Gate guard.

Closer view of original Tokyo Imperial Palace. 

We tried to get a photo. But were rushed off by the Imperial
Police who said we had to keep walking. 

Beginning of the crowd. 

20" thick glass for royal Imperial Japanese family
 to stand behind in front of the crowds. 

What we saw the most during the event. 

In the middle is Emperor Akihito and the Empress Michiko, surrounded on
both sides by various royal family members. Here Emperor Akihito is
giving his speech. 

                                     

"Bonzai! Bonzai!" meaning long life yelled at the Emperor as he arrived. 

I hope someday C appreciates the things we exposed her to as a child. 

Imperial guard on horse. 

The beloved swan(s) that swim in the large moat surrounding the Imperial Palace. 

No strollers allowed inside the Imperial Palace grounds during the event. We took turns carrying Cora. 

C had a toddler meltdown at one point. To be expected during the trip. 

In the crowd waiting for the Emperor and family to arrive. 

James lifting James up to see the Emperor. 

After the Emperor's speech we finally made it out through the crowds.