Hawaii prepares for Japan emperor's visit

HONOLULU, July 12 (UPI) -- Hawaii was preparing Sunday for a visit by Japanese Emperor Akihito, his first trip to the U.S. state in 15 years, officials said.

The emperor has visited Hawaii six times since his first trip in 1953 at age 19 when he was crown prince, and they have always produced media frenzies as residents angle to catch a glimpse of royalty. His latest trip, which was to start Tuesday and last for three days, probably won't be an exception, the Honolulu Star Bulletin reported Sunday.

The best chance for onlookers will be Tuesday morning, when the couple arrive at Hickam Air Force Base. Emperor Akihito will view a shower tree he planted in 1960 in Kapi'olani Park, the Honolulu Advertiser said.

Tochiho Enomoto, 70, of Pauoa, Hawaii, said she was born in Tokyo, and even though she married a Hawaiian boy and became an American citizen years ago, she still feels a bond to the imperial family. She told the newspaper she does not have tickets to any of the official functions.

"But I want to show my affection for the royal family," Enomoto said. "I pay attention to what they're doing and what they think."