JAPAN: The Broom

Since his nation's surrender in 1945, Emperor Hirohito has been shifting from a divine to a human monarch. In his new role, the ex-god makes frequent tours among his people. Last week, as Hirohito visited the southern island of Kyushu, the changed relationship between the ruler and the ruled became increasingly and significantly apparent. Cabled TIME Correspondent Frank Gibney:

The smiling crowds spilled everywhere. The sidewalks and street corners of Nagasaki were blocked as far as eye could see with politel^ jostling people, carrying glossy paper Japanese flags, waiting for the first glimpse of Hirohito's aging maroon Packard.

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