Japan's Emperor Akihito has always been attentive to his country's future, so it was no surprise to see him taking a keen interest in some of the nation's younger citizens on Monday afternoon.
The 72-year-old monarch, who is known for his fondness for children, was clearly enjoying himself as he and his wife paid a visit to a nursery school in Tokyo.
Since acceding to the throne in 1989 the sovereign has earned a reputation for his informal style. And he certainly lived up to his name when he arrived at the day-care centre, kneeling and quickly establishing eye-contact with the boys and girls.
Empress Michiko, his wife of 47 years, sat at his side as he waved playfully to the youngsters and chatted with those who came over to investigate their VIP guests. One little girl even invited the head-of-state to join in their fun by presenting him with one of her toys.
It's safe to say the royal couple know a thing or two about children, as they have brought up two sons, Crown Prince Naruhito and Prince Akishino, and a daughter, Princess Sayako. Indeed the pair caused quite a stir in the early Sixties when they decided to break with longstanding tradition by raising their children themselves instead of turning them over to surrogate parents. These days, with their offspring all grown up, they are happy to dote on their grandchildren, Aiko, Mako and Kako.
Photo: © Alphapress.com
Photo: © Alphapress.com
