Prime Minister Yoshiro Mori hosted the annual cherry blossom viewing party in the morning at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Tokyo. The approximately 8,500 people invited included political and business leaders, cultural and sports figures, and participants in United Nations peacekeeping operations. Addressing the guests, the Prime Minister said, "Facing squarely our various problems, I will strive for a rebirth of Japan." As he strolled beneath the garden's "yaezakura" cherry trees, the Prime Minister paused to shake hands with guests and pose for commemorative photographs.