What would the emperor of Japan do if he could shed his weighty crown for a day and roam freely among the common people?

Nam says Japanese prime ministers and emperors have apologized several times but they were merely expressing words.

Yet many Japanese, says Yamashita, want the emperor to continue the long tradition of leading Shinto rituals, encouraging age-old cultural practices, and inspiring the nation.

News photos of President Barack Obama bowing to Japan's emperor have incensed critics here, who said the US leader should stand tall when representing America overseas.

"It's like a dream to be able to celebrate the day of our golden wedding right next to the emperor today," Michiko said.