Japanese Emperor Naruhito turned 66 on Monday. Naruhito, Empress Masako, their daughter, Princess Aiko, and his younger brother Crown Prince Akishino’s family waved from the palace balcony in an appearance to thank cheering well-wishers waving small rising-sun flags.

He said he wants Aiko to follow in his footsteps and hand down history to the younger generations. Aiko, 24, is the only child of the emporer.