Unprecedented Disruption at Imperial Palace's New Year's Greeting

On January 2, 2026, the New Year's Public Greeting at the Imperial Palace saw the Imperial Family, including Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress, Their Majesties the Emperor Emeritus and Empress Emerita, and the Akishino family—with Prince Hisahito attending for the first time—address the public with New Year's wishes. Over 60,000 well-wishers gathered, and Their Majesties offered words hoping for a peaceful and tranquil year. As the Imperial Family waved from the palace balcony, many felt the dawn of a new year, and cheers resonated through the crowd.

However, this solemn atmosphere was marred by an unprecedented incident. Around 2:30 PM, shortly after Their Majesties the Emperor and Empress and the Akishino family appeared on the balcony and the Emperor delivered his greeting, a man in his 20s, believed to be in the front row, suddenly began shouting bizarrely and stripping off his clothes. He was arrested on the spot on suspicion of public indecency after becoming fully naked.

The man was immediately apprehended by Imperial Guard officers and Metropolitan Police Department officers nearby, and the disturbance was resolved quickly. According to some reports, the man was said to have climbed over a fence to reach his position, and there are also claims on social media that he had announced his intentions beforehand. Police are currently investigating the detailed circumstances.

This unexpected incident, occurring at the peaceful outset of the New Year, surprised visitors and may lead to renewed discussions about the adequacy of security measures. Nevertheless, many people found hope in the energetic presence of the Imperial Family and their messages celebrating the start of the New Year.

The context

The New Year's Public Greeting (新年一般参賀, Shinnen Ippan Sanga) is a cherished annual tradition in Japan, held at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. It is one of the few opportunities for the general public to see and greet the Emperor, Empress, and other members of the Imperial Family in person. The event typically takes place on January 2nd (and sometimes on the Emperor's birthday), allowing the Imperial Family to extend their New Year's wishes directly to the citizens. Attendees gather in the East Garden of the Imperial Palace, and members of the Imperial Family make several appearances on a glass-enclosed balcony, waving and offering brief remarks.

The Imperial Family holds significant symbolic importance in Japan, representing continuity and national unity. The Emperor is the "symbol of the State and of the unity of the people." Crown Prince Akishino is the heir presumptive, and his son, Prince Hisahito, is currently second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne. His first official appearance at the New Year's Greeting is a notable event, marking his growing public role within the Imperial Family. Given the reverence and historical significance associated with the Imperial Palace and its inhabitants, security at such events is typically very tight, making the recent incident particularly unusual and concerning.