TOKYO : In Japan, viewers who tuned in to the morning news bulletin were thrilled when one of their own was crowned this year's Miss Universe.

20-year-old Riyo Mori broke a half-century dry spell for the nation when she clinched the title.

The news provided welcome relief for many, coming a day after the suicide of the country's farm minister.

The twenty-year-old Japanese did her country proud by becoming the 56th winner of the title.

Watched by a live audience of 10,000 in Mexico City and some 600 million television viewers worldwide, the stunned and elated beauty paraded her US$250m crown amidst cheers.

She beat 77 other contestants to reign as Miss Universe for a year.

Speaking at a news conference, Miss Mori revealed that she has surpassed the expectations of her grandmother.

When she was a child, her granny had predicted that her grand-daughter would grow up to be Miss Japan.

Miss Mori, who's from Shizuoka prefecture, south of Tokyo, is the second Japanese woman to take the top prize.

"I can't think of anything. My mind went blank. I'm grateful to my parents, director and everyone who supported me," said Miss Universe 2007 Riyo Mori.

Back home, many Japanese hailed her triumph as a boost for the country's international standing.

"The Japanese people typically have a small build. The choice of a Japanese (to win the crown) is such happy news for us," said one Japanese.

Judges at a beauty pageant for men in Tokyo were happy that a home-grown beauty was making waves across the globe.

"I'm happy that we Japanese have produced world-class figures. I'm sure Ms Mori also worked hard on improving her personality. As a Japanese, I'm proud of her," said Noriko Hasesgawa,a housewife.

It's the first time in 48 years that a Japanese won the beauty pageant.

Some beauty analysts said the Japanese have become slimmer, with longer arms and legs, as well as smaller waists.

Beauty experts said many women here are turning to beauty aids to improve their body shape.

"Many say that the Japanese have nicer figures these days, but the fact is, more women are turning to products that enhance their cleavage and flatten their stomachs. They're more beauty-conscious," said Takako Shiratori, Advertising Department, Wacoal.

For many in Japan, having a fellow citizen win the Miss Universe pageant gives them new hope that more of their own will go on to win other prestigious beauty titles. - CNA /ls