Commemorating the start fifty years ago of Japanese immigration, Sao Paulo put on a dazzling and crackling festival on June 18.

Over 200,000 people were there among the fireworks and the bright lights to watch the highlight of the festival, a giant parade held in the downtown part of the City and sponsored by Sao Paulo's industry.

It was the parade of the year - beautifully decorated floats, brass bands, dancing girls, cheers and plenty of noise.

Their Imperial Highnesses, Prince and Princess Mikasa, representing Emperor Hirohito of Japan, were there to watch. Prince Mikasa, the brother of the Emperor, arrived at the parade in this glittering car, with the Princess.

The first Japanese immigrants totalled 780 persons. That was in 1908. Today the Japanese colony is a teeming one with its members playing an important part in the life of Brazil.

Although the Japanese colony has traditionally kept somewhat apart from Brazilian society, the youngsters of the colony are growing up to be the New Brazilians. Already many of them are working in industry, commerce and the law.

Beneath the flying flags and banners at the parade was this old pair; a couple who landed from the first immigrant ship fifty years ago.

They saw the parade go by with a fanfare from mouthed trumpeters. Next came the floats, the bands with majorettes, girls in kimonos. And thousands of yelling children among the crowds having the day of their life.