Speaking with guests at an imperial garden party, the emperor, who rarely enters political disputes, said "it is desirable not to force" the singing of the anthem or standing before the flag at school ceremonies, according to informed sources quoted by the news agency.

Japan designated the "Hinomaru" Rising Sun its national flag and "Kimigayo," or "His Majesty's Reign," as the national anthem in 1999, drawing controversy for their association with World War II militarism under Akihito's father, Emperor Hirohito.

In October last year, Tokyo began requiring public schools to display the Hinomaru and to sing the anthem at enrollment and graduation ceremonies and stipulated penalties for those who did not comply.

More than 200 teachers in Tokyo have since been punished for refusing to stand and sing the anthem, according to Kyodo. Other teachers have received lesser punishments because their students did not stand up.

Critics said the compulsory flag and anthem violated freedom of thought and conscience as provided for under the constitution.

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