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Thursday, 12th March 2009
In General Japan News,

101 couples invited to Imperial Palace for anniversary celebrations

More than 100 couples have been invited to Japan's Imperial Palace next month as part of the celebrations for the 50th anniversary of Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko.

All of the 101 couples will also be celebrating 50 years of marriage, reports Kyodo News.

They will be treated to a tea party hosted by the royals.

Between one and three of the couples were elected from each of Japan's 47 prefectures.

Recently, it was reported that Crown Prince Naruhito has sought to end a rift with his father by offering to ease the burden of duties placed on him.

"I will do whatever it takes to help improve the situation," he commented.

In December, the emperor was treated for an irregular pulse, internal bleeding and high blood pressure.

Ichiro Kanazawa, head of the Imperial Household Agency's medical division, commented: "His Majesty has felt distress over many matters and I believe he has been patiently holding himself back."

Written by Susan Ballion