Japan About 10,000 people and 20,000 guests gather at the national festival in Tokyo to celebrate Emperor Naruhito's enthronement.

The festival is organized by political groups and businessmen with the participation of many dancers, famous music stars and was broadcast live across Japan on 9/11. The crowd waved its flag, shouting "Long live" when Emperor Naruhito and Queen Masako appeared.

"I am grateful to you for gathering here to send greetings," the emperor said at the Imperial Palace in front of a crowd in Tokyo, after a speech of congratulation by Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

Before the Emperor appeared, 10,000 people received an invitation and 20,000 guests enjoyed the performances at the venue. The Emperor and Empress will take part in the parade along the 4.6 km long route from the Imperial Palace to their residence at Akasaka Palace, central Tokyo to mark the coronation.

The parade was originally scheduled to take place on October 22, the same day as the coronation of Emperor Naruhito, but was postponed after more than 80 people were killed by Typhoon Hagibis. In his short speech today, the Emperor also gave his condolences to the victims and expressed "sincere hope" that the disaster's consequences would soon be overcome.

The Japanese National Police Agency said it would deploy up to 26,000 officers on duty during the parade. 40 baggage inspection stations were also set up at 29 locations along the route of the Emperor. Some streets and subway station entrances will be closed during parades.

Emperor Naruhito took over the royal family on May 1 after his father Akihito abdicated. His coronation ceremony was held on October 22, officially marking the beginning of the "Order of peace" of Japan. Emperor Naruhito was the first Japanese king to be born after World War II.