Japan's new Emperor Naruhito on Thursday began an elaborate and secretive ritual dating back 1,300 years, giving thanks to the Sun Goddess Amaterasu as part of his enthronement rites.

The Daijosai, considered the most important ritual for Japan's imperial household, came three weeks after Naruhito proclaimed his ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne and is performed only once in an emperor's reign.

Television footage showed the emperor in white silk vestments walking slowly through a specially constructed complex of wooden buildings in the imperial palace known as the Daijokyu.

Escorted part of the way by servants, Naruhito entered one of two halls where the main ritual would take place overnight.

The emperor was to offer newly harvested rice to Amaterasu, from whom the Japanese imperial line is considered to have descended, and other deities of heaven and earth.

He was to recite prayers for peace and "share" a feast with the goddess including salmon, abalone, jujube fruit, and millet, washed down with sake.

Empress Masako, wearing a white layered kimono, was to offer her own prayers in separate halls within the Daijokyu.

Other royals and several hundred attendants, including Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, took part in separate pavilions. No foreigners attend the sacred rite.

The emperor disappeared from sight after he entered the main hall by torchlight. Throughout the rituals that end just before dawn on Friday, he was to be accompanied only by a lady-in-waiting.

'Simple ceremony'

The rite was mentioned in historical documents dating back as far as the seventh century but was discontinued for more than 200 years because of civil war and financial constraints, starting up again in the late 17th century.

The Daijosai, which is carried out whenever a new emperor ascends the throne, is estimated to cost 2.7 billion yen ($25 million), including building and dismantling the Daijokyu and later banquets at the palace.

The Daijokyu complex is built on an area of about 2,700 square metres and consists of around 30 pavilions of different sizes for those performing and observing the rituals.

"It was originally a simple ceremony using natural materials but it is expensive to replicate it in the modern age," said Keiko Hongo, professor at the Historiographical Institute of the University of Tokyo.

The buildings are of a traditional, simple construction. The floors are laid with straw mats and the pillars made from logs with unstripped bark.

The Daijosai, though not officially a state occasion, has drawn criticism given its highly religious nature and cost.

The rice used in the Daijosai was planted earlier in the year after palace courtiers selected sites using an ancient ritual involving the shells of rare green sea turtles.

Two thin plates made from turtle shells were heated over a flame to produce cracks, which "told" officials to grow the rice in two locations -- the ancient capital of Kyoto and the Tochigi region north of Tokyo.

The harvesting in September was also bound in ritual. The day before, rituals were performed to "purify" everyone involved.

On the day, the emperor's envoys offered prayers and the rice was harvested by farmers in traditional clothes and black hats at the two locations selected.&nbsp;

Only the most carefully selected heads are threshed to make the offerings for the Daijosai.

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito on Thursday began an elaborate and secretive ritual dating back 1,300 years, giving thanks to the Sun Goddess Amaterasu as part of his enthronement rites.

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito on Thursday began an elaborate and secretive ritual dating back 1,300 years, giving thanks to the Sun Goddess Amaterasu as part of his enthronement rites. The Daijosai, considered the most important ritual for Japan's imperial household, came three weeks after Naruhito proclaimed his ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne and is performed only once in an emperor's reign. Television footage showed the emperor in white silk vestments walking slowly through a specially constructed complex of wooden buildings in the imperial palace known as the Daijokyu. Escorted part of the way by servants, Naruhito entered one of two halls where the main ritual would take place overnight. The emperor was to offer newly harvested rice to Amaterasu, from whom the Japanese imperial line is considered to have descended, and other deities of heaven and earth. He was to recite prayers for peace and "share" a feast with the goddess including salmon, abalone, jujube fruit, and millet, washed down with sake. Empress Masako, wearing a white layered kimono, was to offer her own prayers in separate halls within the Daijokyu. Other royals and several hundred attendants, including Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, took part in separate pavilions. No foreigners attend the sacred rite. The emperor disappeared from sight after he entered the main hall by torchlight. Throughout the rituals that end just before dawn on Friday, he was to be accompanied only by a lady-in-waiting. 'Simple ceremony' The rite was mentioned in historical documents dating back as far as the seventh century but was discontinued for more than 200 years because of civil war and financial constraints, starting up again in the late 17th century. The Daijosai, which is carried out whenever a new emperor ascends the throne, is estimated to cost 2.7 billion yen ($25 million), including building and dismantling the Daijokyu and later banquets at the palace. The Daijokyu complex is built on an area of about 2,700 square metres and consists of around 30 pavilions of different sizes for those performing and observing the rituals. "It was originally a simple ceremony using natural materials but it is expensive to replicate it in the modern age," said Keiko Hongo, professor at the Historiographical Institute of the University of Tokyo. The buildings are of a traditional, simple construction. The floors are laid with straw mats and the pillars made from logs with unstripped bark. The Daijosai, though not officially a state occasion, has drawn criticism given its highly religious nature and cost. The rice used in the Daijosai was planted earlier in the year after palace courtiers selected sites using an ancient ritual involving the shells of rare green sea turtles. Two thin plates made from turtle shells were heated over a flame to produce cracks, which "told" officials to grow the rice in two locations -- the ancient capital of Kyoto and the Tochigi region north of Tokyo. The harvesting in September was also bound in ritual. The day before, rituals were performed to "purify" everyone involved. On the day, the emperor's envoys offered prayers and the rice was harvested by farmers in traditional clothes and black hats at the two locations selected. Only the most carefully selected heads are threshed to make the offerings for the Daijosai.

Japan's emperor performs thanksgiving rite with Sun Goddess

Japanese Emperor Naruhito formally took up his post on Wednesday a day <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-an-era-as-japans-emperor-akihito-abdicates-214724">after the abdication of his father</a>, saying he felt a "sense of solemnity" but pledging to work as a symbol of the nation and the unity of its people.

Former Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko stepped down on Tuesday after three decades as the nation's top royals in a brief, simple ceremony, with Akihito thanking the people of Japan and saying he prayed for peace.

Naruhito, 59, technically succeeded his father just as Tuesday became Wednesday but his ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne was formalised in a mid-morning ceremony, the first part of which his wife and other royal women were unable to attend.

Naruhito, the first emperor born after World War Two and the first to be raised solely by his parents, expressed gratitude for his parents' work over the past three decades and said he felt solemn at the thought of the burden he is taking on.

"I pledge that I will always think of the people, and while drawing close to them, fulfil my duties as a symbol of the Japanese state and the unity of the Japanese people in accordance with the constitution," Naruhito, wearing a tailcoat and several large medals, said with a small smile.

"I sincerely hope for the happiness of the people and further progress of the country, and for world peace," he said.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/japan-gets-new-emperor-new-era-starts-214908/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the first stage of the ceremony, imperial chamberlains carried state and privy seals into the hall along with two of Japan's "Three Sacred Treasures" - a sword and a jewel - which together with a mirror are symbols of the throne.

They are said to originate in ancient mythology.

Naruhito was flanked by his brother and heir, Crown Prince Akishino, during the simple, brief ceremony.

His wife, Empress Masako, was not in the room in accordance with custom barring female royals, but for the first time a woman did watch - Satsuki Katayama, who was taking part as a member of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's cabinet.

Masako, wearing a floor-length white dress and a tiara, entered the room for the second part of the ceremony with the other adult royal women.

Abe said Japan looked up to the emperor.

"We are determined to create, amidst the fast-changing international environment, a bright future for a proud Japan that is peaceful and full of hope," he added.

US&nbsp;President Donald Trump, who will be the new imperial couple's first diplomatic test on a state visit later in May, also extended his congratulations.

"As the Japanese people embark upon a new era, we will renew the strong bonds of friendship between our two countries," he said in a statement.

Chinese President Xi Jinping also sent congratulations, reported state news agency Xinhua. South Korean President Moon Jae-in did so the day before, in a message that thanked Akihito for promoting peace and bilateral ties.

Japan's ties with its Asian neighbours have long been plagued by bitter wartime memories, and while relations with Beijing have improved lately, those with Seoul are frosty.

High hopes

Given the backgrounds of Naruhito and his wife, Masako, a 55-year-old former diplomat - which include extended experience studying and living overseas - hopes are high they may be more international in their outlook and closer to the lives of many Japanese.

"The curtain has gone up on a new era that will be filled with hope," said Hiroshi Takahashi, 78, outside his 'wagashi' traditional Japanese sweets shop.

"The new emperor has an admirable personality and I hope he creates a fine royal household that expresses his own personality," he said.

The last imperial succession in 1989 took place during mourning for Akihito's father, Hirohito.

This time the mood is more festive. Japan has been draped in banners welcoming Reiwa - the name of the new era for Naruhito's reign - during an unprecedented 10-day holiday. Countdown events were held on Tuesday night in clubs throughout the nation, with people cheering as the clocked ticked down to midnight and fireworks shooting into the sky in some areas.

On Wednesday morning, electric signs in Tokyo's subway system bore messages "congratulating the emperor on his accession" and workers in a downtown Tokyo electronics store wore red shirts saying "Happy New Era Reiwa."

His formal enthronement will take place at a more elaborate ceremony in October attended by dignitaries from Japan and around the world.

Though the royal family is broadly popular, opponents of the imperial system clashed with right-wingers at a demonstration on Tuesday, and the two groups had to be separated by police.

Japanese media said two people were arrested.

Naruhito's passion for water conservation dates from his study of medieval transportation and includes an interest in other environmental topics. Masako has expressed an interest in topics related to children in trouble or living in poverty.

Though Masako struggled with a stress-related illness described by palace officials as an "adjustment disorder" that kept her largely out of the public eye for years, her public appearances have recently increased.

Japanese Emperor Naruhito formally took up his post on Wednesday a day after the abdication of his father, saying he felt a "sense of solemnity" but pledging to work as a symbol of the nation and the unity of its people.

Japanese Emperor Naruhito formally took up his post on Wednesday a day after the abdication of his father, saying he felt a "sense of solemnity" but pledging to work as a symbol of the nation and the unity of its people. Former Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko stepped down on Tuesday after three decades as the nation's top royals in a brief, simple ceremony, with Akihito thanking the people of Japan and saying he prayed for peace. Naruhito, 59, technically succeeded his father just as Tuesday became Wednesday but his ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne was formalised in a mid-morning ceremony, the first part of which his wife and other royal women were unable to attend. Naruhito, the first emperor born after World War Two and the first to be raised solely by his parents, expressed gratitude for his parents' work over the past three decades and said he felt solemn at the thought of the burden he is taking on. "I pledge that I will always think of the people, and while drawing close to them, fulfil my duties as a symbol of the Japanese state and the unity of the Japanese people in accordance with the constitution," Naruhito, wearing a tailcoat and several large medals, said with a small smile. "I sincerely hope for the happiness of the people and further progress of the country, and for world peace," he said. In the first stage of the ceremony, imperial chamberlains carried state and privy seals into the hall along with two of Japan's "Three Sacred Treasures" - a sword and a jewel - which together with a mirror are symbols of the throne. They are said to originate in ancient mythology. Naruhito was flanked by his brother and heir, Crown Prince Akishino, during the simple, brief ceremony. His wife, Empress Masako, was not in the room in accordance with custom barring female royals, but for the first time a woman did watch - Satsuki Katayama, who was taking part as a member of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's cabinet. Masako, wearing a floor-length white dress and a tiara, entered the room for the second part of the ceremony with the other adult royal women. Abe said Japan looked up to the emperor. "We are determined to create, amidst the fast-changing international environment, a bright future for a proud Japan that is peaceful and full of hope," he added. US President Donald Trump, who will be the new imperial couple's first diplomatic test on a state visit later in May, also extended his congratulations. "As the Japanese people embark upon a new era, we will renew the strong bonds of friendship between our two countries," he said in a statement. Chinese President Xi Jinping also sent congratulations, reported state news agency Xinhua. South Korean President Moon Jae-in did so the day before, in a message that thanked Akihito for promoting peace and bilateral ties. Japan's ties with its Asian neighbours have long been plagued by bitter wartime memories, and while relations with Beijing have improved lately, those with Seoul are frosty. High hopes Given the backgrounds of Naruhito and his wife, Masako, a 55-year-old former diplomat - which include extended experience studying and living overseas - hopes are high they may be more international in their outlook and closer to the lives of many Japanese. "The curtain has gone up on a new era that will be filled with hope," said Hiroshi Takahashi, 78, outside his 'wagashi' traditional Japanese sweets shop. "The new emperor has an admirable personality and I hope he creates a fine royal household that expresses his own personality," he said. The last imperial succession in 1989 took place during mourning for Akihito's father, Hirohito. This time the mood is more festive. Japan has been draped in banners welcoming Reiwa - the name of the new era for Naruhito's reign - during an unprecedented 10-day holiday. Countdown events were held on Tuesday night in clubs throughout the nation, with people cheering as the clocked ticked down to midnight and fireworks shooting into the sky in some areas. On Wednesday morning, electric signs in Tokyo's subway system bore messages "congratulating the emperor on his accession" and workers in a downtown Tokyo electronics store wore red shirts saying "Happy New Era Reiwa." His formal enthronement will take place at a more elaborate ceremony in October attended by dignitaries from Japan and around the world. Though the royal family is broadly popular, opponents of the imperial system clashed with right-wingers at a demonstration on Tuesday, and the two groups had to be separated by police. Japanese media said two people were arrested. Naruhito's passion for water conservation dates from his study of medieval transportation and includes an interest in other environmental topics. Masako has expressed an interest in topics related to children in trouble or living in poverty. Though Masako struggled with a stress-related illness described by palace officials as an "adjustment disorder" that kept her largely out of the public eye for years, her public appearances have recently increased.

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito officially takes up post

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito formally ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne on Wednesday, a day after <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/end-of-an-era-as-japans-emperor-akihito-abdicates-214724">his father abdicated from the world's oldest monarchy</a> and ushered in a new imperial era.

Naruhito officially became emperor at the stroke of midnight but the process was formalised with a brief ritual on Wednesday morning that was off-limits to female royals -- even his wife Masako.

The emperor entered the Imperial Palace's Pine Room in formal Western clothing, including a heavy gold chain of office, accompanied by male family members including his brother Akishino.

The 59-year-old was presented with the items his father Akihito relinquished a day earlier: sacred imperial treasures of a sword and a jewel, as well as the seal of state and his personal imperial seal.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/wion-gravitas-emperor-akihito-abdicates-ending-three-decade-reign-214869/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

The sole woman invitee allowed to attend was the only female member of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's cabinet.&nbsp;

The ceremony took place on the first day of the new imperial era of Reiwa, meaning "beautiful harmony", which will last throughout Naruhito's reign.

Shortly afterwards, Empress Masako arrived by car at the palace in a diamond-studded tiara to join Naruhito for his first address to the nation as its 126th emperor.

He will also make a public appearance on Saturday when he will again speak to the people of Japan.

But the pomp and ceremony will wait until October 22 when he and Masako will appear in elaborate traditional robes for a ceremony in the palace before parading through the streets of the capital to be congratulated by a host of world leaders and royals.

Naruhito will greet his first foreign head of state as emperor later this month, when US President Donald Trump visits Japan to meet the new monarch.

Balancing act

The Oxford-educated Naruhito faces the delicate balancing act of continuing his father's legacy of bringing the monarchy closer to the people while upholding the centuries-old traditions of the Chrysanthemum Throne.

Like his popular father Akihito, he has warned of the need to remember World War II "correctly," without downplaying Japan's early 20th-century militarism.

He has also spoken of the need to modernise the royal family, and vowed when he married Masako -- who left behind a promising diplomatic career -- to protect her "at any cost".

She has struggled however to adjust to palace life, including being subjected to enormous pressure to produce a male heir, and has suffered stress-induced "adjustment disorder" for much of their marriage.

The couple have one child, a 17-year-old daughter called Aiko, who cannot inherit the throne because she is female.

In a statement released on her birthday in December, Masako pledged to do her best despite feeling "insecure" about becoming empress.

In the candid statement, she said she was recovering and could "perform more duties than before", crediting the "powerful support" of the public.

Naruhito is ascending the throne in a very different Japan to the one his father took over when he became emperor in 1989.

Then, Japan ruled the world economically, its technology was the envy of every industrialised nation, and its stock market was at highs unlikely to be matched again.

Symbol of Japan

At the height of the bubble, Japanese investors were snapping up paintings like Van Gogh's "Sunflowers" and US landmarks including the Rockefeller Center in Manhattan as "money was dripping off trees" -- in the words of one former banker.

But following a "lost decade" after the bubble burst, Japan is still locked in a battle against deflation and sluggish growth while its population ages rapidly and many rural areas suffer from depopulation as young people move to cities.

Akihito's abdication, the first in 200 years, has resulted in an unprecedented 10-day public holiday for the famously hard-working Japanese, with many taking advantage of the break to travel.

But despite the holiday exodus, and steady driving rain on Tuesday night, crowds still gathered at Tokyo's famous Shibuya crossing at the clock struck midnight to welcome the Reiwa era.

"The emperor was a good person... He was the symbol of Japan," said Rika Yamamoto, a 24-year-old company employee sheltering under an umbrella on the crossing.

"I hope the new emperor will carry on the kindness the old emperor had."

Political parties across the spectrum also welcomed the new emperor -- including the Communist Party, whose official platform considers the monarchy incompatible with democracy.

The party said it "celebrates the new emperor's accession" and that it expected Naruhito to be a "symbol of the people".

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito formally ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne on Wednesday, a day after his father abdicated from the world's oldest monarchy and ushered in a new imperial era.

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito formally ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne on Wednesday, a day after his father abdicated from the world's oldest monarchy and ushered in a new imperial era. Naruhito officially became emperor at the stroke of midnight but the process was formalised with a brief ritual on Wednesday morning that was off-limits to female royals -- even his wife Masako. The emperor entered the Imperial Palace's Pine Room in formal Western clothing, including a heavy gold chain of office, accompanied by male family members including his brother Akishino. The 59-year-old was presented with the items his father Akihito relinquished a day earlier: sacred imperial treasures of a sword and a jewel, as well as the seal of state and his personal imperial seal. The sole woman invitee allowed to attend was the only female member of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's cabinet. The ceremony took place on the first day of the new imperial era of Reiwa, meaning "beautiful harmony", which will last throughout Naruhito's reign. Shortly afterwards, Empress Masako arrived by car at the palace in a diamond-studded tiara to join Naruhito for his first address to the nation as its 126th emperor. He will also make a public appearance on Saturday when he will again speak to the people of Japan. But the pomp and ceremony will wait until October 22 when he and Masako will appear in elaborate traditional robes for a ceremony in the palace before parading through the streets of the capital to be congratulated by a host of world leaders and royals. Naruhito will greet his first foreign head of state as emperor later this month, when US President Donald Trump visits Japan to meet the new monarch. Balancing act The Oxford-educated Naruhito faces the delicate balancing act of continuing his father's legacy of bringing the monarchy closer to the people while upholding the centuries-old traditions of the Chrysanthemum Throne. Like his popular father Akihito, he has warned of the need to remember World War II "correctly," without downplaying Japan's early 20th-century militarism. He has also spoken of the need to modernise the royal family, and vowed when he married Masako -- who left behind a promising diplomatic career -- to protect her "at any cost". She has struggled however to adjust to palace life, including being subjected to enormous pressure to produce a male heir, and has suffered stress-induced "adjustment disorder" for much of their marriage. The couple have one child, a 17-year-old daughter called Aiko, who cannot inherit the throne because she is female. In a statement released on her birthday in December, Masako pledged to do her best despite feeling "insecure" about becoming empress. In the candid statement, she said she was recovering and could "perform more duties than before", crediting the "powerful support" of the public. Naruhito is ascending the throne in a very different Japan to the one his father took over when he became emperor in 1989. Then, Japan ruled the world economically, its technology was the envy of every industrialised nation, and its stock market was at highs unlikely to be matched again. Symbol of Japan At the height of the bubble, Japanese investors were snapping up paintings like Van Gogh's "Sunflowers" and US landmarks including the Rockefeller Center in Manhattan as "money was dripping off trees" -- in the words of one former banker. But following a "lost decade" after the bubble burst, Japan is still locked in a battle against deflation and sluggish growth while its population ages rapidly and many rural areas suffer from depopulation as young people move to cities. Akihito's abdication, the first in 200 years, has resulted in an unprecedented 10-day public holiday for the famously hard-working Japanese, with many taking advantage of the break to travel. But despite the holiday exodus, and steady driving rain on Tuesday night, crowds still gathered at Tokyo's famous Shibuya crossing at the clock struck midnight to welcome the Reiwa era. "The emperor was a good person... He was the symbol of Japan," said Rika Yamamoto, a 24-year-old company employee sheltering under an umbrella on the crossing. "I hope the new emperor will carry on the kindness the old emperor had." Political parties across the spectrum also welcomed the new emperor -- including the Communist Party, whose official platform considers the monarchy incompatible with democracy. The party said it "celebrates the new emperor's accession" and that it expected Naruhito to be a "symbol of the people".

Japan rings in new era as Naruhito ascends Chrysanthemum Throne

Japanese Emperor Akihito will make a rare video address to the nation on Monday in which the 82-year-old monarch is expected to outline his concerns that he cannot do his job fully but avoid saying outright that he wants to abdicate. 
 
Public broadcaster NHK reported last month that Akihito, who has had heart surgery and been treated for prostate cancer, wanted to step down in a few years - a move that would be unprecedented in modern Japan. 
 
Once considered divine, Japan’s emperor is defined in the constitution as a symbol of the “unity of the people” and has no political power. He is therefore, unlikely to state outright that he wants to step down, which could be interpreted as interfering in politics. 
 
Akihito is said to feel strongly that an emperor’s full performance of his duties is integral to his constitutional role as a symbol of the people’s unity, according to monarchy experts. 
 
Opinion polls show the vast majority of ordinary Japanese sympathise with the emperor’s desire to retire, but legal changes would be needed to allow him to do so. 
 
The idea has sparked opposition from Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s conservative base, who worry debate on the imperial family’s future could widen to the topic of letting women inherit and pass on the throne, anathema to traditionalists. 
 
Akihito has been cutting back on official duties recently, his place taken by his heir, 56-year-old Crown Prince Naruhito. 
 
Naruhito has only one daughter. Since only males can inherit the Chrysanthemum Throne, the throne after Naruhito would pass to his brother, Prince Akishino, and then to nine-year-old nephew Hisahito. 
 
Others worry that devoting political energy to discussing abdication could sidetrack Abe’s push to revise the US-drafted pacifist constitution, seen by many conservatives as a symbol of Japan’s humiliating defeat in World War Two. 
 
Akihito ascended the throne after the death of his father, Hirohito, in whose name Japan fought the war. He has sought to soothe the wounds of the conflict in Asia and tried to bring the monarchy closer to the people. 
 
The emperor’s recorded remarks will be aired at 3 pm (0600 GMT), only the second time Akihito has addressed the public in such a fashion. The first was after a massive earthquake, deadly tsunami and nuclear disaster hit northeast Japan in March 2011. 
 
Abe is expected to issue a statement saying he takes the emperor’s remarks seriously, domestic media reported, in remarks carefully worded to avoid appearing to politicise the issue. 
 
(Reuters) 
&nbsp;

The monarch has been cutting back on official duties due to health concerns but has avoided saying outrightly that he wants to abdicate

Japanese Emperor Akihito will make a rare video address to the nation on Monday in which the 82-year-old monarch is expected to outline his concerns that he cannot do his job fully but avoid saying outright that he wants to abdicate. Public broadcaster NHK reported last month that Akihito, who has had heart surgery and been treated for prostate cancer, wanted to step down in a few years - a move that would be unprecedented in modern Japan. Once considered divine, Japan’s emperor is defined in the constitution as a symbol of the “unity of the people” and has no political power. He is therefore, unlikely to state outright that he wants to step down, which could be interpreted as interfering in politics. Akihito is said to feel strongly that an emperor’s full performance of his duties is integral to his constitutional role as a symbol of the people’s unity, according to monarchy experts. Opinion polls show the vast majority of ordinary Japanese sympathise with the emperor’s desire to retire, but legal changes would be needed to allow him to do so. The idea has sparked opposition from Prime Minister Shinzo Abe’s conservative base, who worry debate on the imperial family’s future could widen to the topic of letting women inherit and pass on the throne, anathema to traditionalists. Akihito has been cutting back on official duties recently, his place taken by his heir, 56-year-old Crown Prince Naruhito. Naruhito has only one daughter. Since only males can inherit the Chrysanthemum Throne, the throne after Naruhito would pass to his brother, Prince Akishino, and then to nine-year-old nephew Hisahito. Others worry that devoting political energy to discussing abdication could sidetrack Abe’s push to revise the US-drafted pacifist constitution, seen by many conservatives as a symbol of Japan’s humiliating defeat in World War Two. Akihito ascended the throne after the death of his father, Hirohito, in whose name Japan fought the war. He has sought to soothe the wounds of the conflict in Asia and tried to bring the monarchy closer to the people. The emperor’s recorded remarks will be aired at 3 pm (0600 GMT), only the second time Akihito has addressed the public in such a fashion. The first was after a massive earthquake, deadly tsunami and nuclear disaster hit northeast Japan in March 2011. Abe is expected to issue a statement saying he takes the emperor’s remarks seriously, domestic media reported, in remarks carefully worded to avoid appearing to politicise the issue. (Reuters)

Japanese emperor Akihito to address nation after abdication reports

Record crowds flocked to Japan&#39;s Imperial Palace on Saturday to celebrate the 84th birthday of Emperor Akihito as he prepares to abdicate in April 2019.

Around 45,900 people -- the biggest birthday crowd of the emperor&#39;s three-decade reign -- thronged the palace for his address, according to the Imperial Household Agency, waving small Japanese flags in the winter sunshine and shouting &quot;Banzai&quot; or &quot;long live&quot;.

The softly-spoken monarch greeted well-wishers from a glass-covered balcony overlooking the East Garden, flanked by Empress Michiko and other members of the royal household.&nbsp;It was Akihito&#39;s first public appearance at the palace since the government earlier this month announced the date for his abdication as April 30, 2019.

The emperor shocked the country last year when he signaled his desire to take a back seat after nearly three decades on the job, citing his age and health problems.&nbsp;He will be the first emperor to retire in more than two centuries in the world&#39;s oldest imperial family.

Akihito&#39;s eldest son, 57-year-old Crown Prince Naruhito, is set to ascend the Chrysanthemum Throne a day later.&nbsp;&quot;I wanted to see his face before he abdicates&quot;, said Rie Aisaka, a female attendee.

The status of the emperor is sensitive in Japan given its 20th-century history of war waged in the name of Akihito&#39;s father Hirohito, who died in 1989.&nbsp;Akihito has keenly embraced the more modern role as a symbol of the state,&nbsp;imposed after World War II ended. Previous emperors including his father, Hirohito, had been treated as semi-divine.

&quot;Over the remaining days, as I continue to carry out my duties as the symbol of the State, I would like to make preparations for passing the torch to the next era&quot;, Akihito said in an interview released by the agency earlier in the day.&nbsp;The palace, surrounded by stone walls and mossy moats -- is opened to the general public twice a year -- on the emperor&#39;s birthday and the second day of New Year -- for the royal family to greet well-wishers.

The Japan government has adopted a one-time law allowing for Akihito's abdication, and this month formally set the date for the event - April 30, 2019

Record crowds flocked to Japan's Imperial Palace on Saturday to celebrate the 84th birthday of Emperor Akihito as he prepares to abdicate in April 2019. Around 45,900 people -- the biggest birthday crowd of the emperor's three-decade reign -- thronged the palace for his address, according to the Imperial Household Agency, waving small Japanese flags in the winter sunshine and shouting "Banzai" or "long live". The softly-spoken monarch greeted well-wishers from a glass-covered balcony overlooking the East Garden, flanked by Empress Michiko and other members of the royal household. It was Akihito's first public appearance at the palace since the government earlier this month announced the date for his abdication as April 30, 2019. The emperor shocked the country last year when he signaled his desire to take a back seat after nearly three decades on the job, citing his age and health problems. He will be the first emperor to retire in more than two centuries in the world's oldest imperial family. Akihito's eldest son, 57-year-old Crown Prince Naruhito, is set to ascend the Chrysanthemum Throne a day later. "I wanted to see his face before he abdicates", said Rie Aisaka, a female attendee. The status of the emperor is sensitive in Japan given its 20th-century history of war waged in the name of Akihito's father Hirohito, who died in 1989. Akihito has keenly embraced the more modern role as a symbol of the state, imposed after World War II ended. Previous emperors including his father, Hirohito, had been treated as semi-divine. "Over the remaining days, as I continue to carry out my duties as the symbol of the State, I would like to make preparations for passing the torch to the next era", Akihito said in an interview released by the agency earlier in the day. The palace, surrounded by stone walls and mossy moats -- is opened to the general public twice a year -- on the emperor's birthday and the second day of New Year -- for the royal family to greet well-wishers.

Record crowds celebrate Japan's Emperor Akihito 84th birthday

Japanese emperor Akihito said today his advancing age and weakening health mean he may no longer be able to carry out his duties, setting the stage for Japan to prepare for a historic abdication. 
 
&quot;There are times when I feel various constraints such as in my physical fitness,&quot; the 82-year-old said in a national address. 
 
&quot;As we are in the midst of a rapidly ageing society, I would like to talk to you today about what would be a desirable role of the emperor in a time when the emperor, too, becomes advanced in age,&quot; he said. 
 
Speculation about Akihito&#39;s future emerged last month with reports saying he had told confidantes that he would like to step down in a few years, in what would be the first abdication from the Chrysanthemum Throne in two centuries. 
 
&quot;I am worried that it may become difficult for me to carry out my duties as the symbol of the state with my whole being as I have done until now,&quot; he said, wearing a dark suit and sitting at a table in the pre-recorded video. 
 
Akihito spoke obliquely -- never mentioning the word abdication and stressing he is legally prevented from commenting on the imperial system -- but analysts and media said his intention was clear. 
 
&quot;His majesty the emperor hints at abdication&quot;, read a two-page extra edition by the top-selling Yomiuri Shimbun daily. 
 
The comments will now allow the government to begin creating the legal mechanism for a royal departure, which currently does not exist. 
 
Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, in a swift response, said the government would take his remarks &quot;seriously&quot;. 
 
&quot;Considering the emperor&#39;s duties, as well as his age and the burden (of the job), we have to firmly look at what we can do,&quot; he said. 
 
Tomitaro Hashimoto, an assistant professor at Reitaku University, said while the emperor did not use the word abdication, &quot;his message clearly called on the public to concretely consider the way for that in the future&quot;. 
 
&quot;Legally, he can&#39;t request a revision of law,&quot; said Hashimoto, an expert on the imperial system. &quot;That&#39;s why he can&#39;t ask directly.&quot; 
 
Any eventual move by Akihito to step down, which would see him replaced by his eldest son Crown Prince Naruhito, appears to have wide support. 
 
A survey by the Asahi Shimbun daily published Monday showed that 84 percent of people surveyed backed the idea. 
 
&#39;Sense of relief&#39; 
 
Akihito has had surgery for prostate cancer and heart problems, both of which he alluded to in his address, though he stressed that he currently enjoys good health. 
 
Public reaction to the speech was sympathetic. 
 
&quot;Since his majesty is getting so old, I was worried about his health, but he made his intention clear and the abdication issue came up,&quot; said 20-year-old Ryota Utsumi. 
 
&quot;It gives me a sense of relief,&quot; added Utsumi, who watched the address on a big screen in a busy Tokyo shopping area. 
 
It was only the second time Akihito had spoken directly to the nation. The first was in the days after the March 2011 triple earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster as he sought to calm a nation undergoing its worst crisis since the war. 
 
Japan&#39;s imperial house is said to be the world&#39;s oldest hereditary monarchy, and according to legend stretches back some 2,600 years in an unbroken line. It is deeply ingrained in the nation&#39;s native Shinto religion. 
 
The speech came in a historically sensitive month. The country commemorated the US atomic bombing of Hiroshima on Saturday and does so again on Tuesday for Nagasaki. 
 
And next Monday Japan pauses to recall the anniversary of its defeat in World War II under Akihito&#39;s father Hirohito, an annual event at which the emperor delivers a speech. 
 
At last year&#39;s event Akihito expressed &quot;deep remorse&quot; over World War II. 
 
He has keenly embraced the role of symbol of the state imposed after the conflict ended. Previous emperors including his father had been treated as semi-divine. 
 
Akihito is credited with seeking reconciliation both at home and abroad over the legacy of the war fought in his father&#39;s name. 
 
He has ventured to a number of locales that saw intense fighting, including Okinawa at home and Saipan, Palau and the Philippines abroad, offering prayers for the souls of all the dead and not just Japanese. 
 
His life has also been characterised by a more personal openness previously unknown among Japanese royals. 
 
His wife Empress Michiko was a commoner when they met and they chose to raise their children themselves, forgoing the traditional use of nannies. 
 
(AFP) 
 
&nbsp;

This would be the first abdication from the Chrysanthemum Throne in two centuries

Japanese emperor Akihito said today his advancing age and weakening health mean he may no longer be able to carry out his duties, setting the stage for Japan to prepare for a historic abdication. "There are times when I feel various constraints such as in my physical fitness," the 82-year-old said in a national address. "As we are in the midst of a rapidly ageing society, I would like to talk to you today about what would be a desirable role of the emperor in a time when the emperor, too, becomes advanced in age," he said. Speculation about Akihito's future emerged last month with reports saying he had told confidantes that he would like to step down in a few years, in what would be the first abdication from the Chrysanthemum Throne in two centuries. "I am worried that it may become difficult for me to carry out my duties as the symbol of the state with my whole being as I have done until now," he said, wearing a dark suit and sitting at a table in the pre-recorded video. Akihito spoke obliquely -- never mentioning the word abdication and stressing he is legally prevented from commenting on the imperial system -- but analysts and media said his intention was clear. "His majesty the emperor hints at abdication", read a two-page extra edition by the top-selling Yomiuri Shimbun daily. The comments will now allow the government to begin creating the legal mechanism for a royal departure, which currently does not exist. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, in a swift response, said the government would take his remarks "seriously". "Considering the emperor's duties, as well as his age and the burden (of the job), we have to firmly look at what we can do," he said. Tomitaro Hashimoto, an assistant professor at Reitaku University, said while the emperor did not use the word abdication, "his message clearly called on the public to concretely consider the way for that in the future". "Legally, he can't request a revision of law," said Hashimoto, an expert on the imperial system. "That's why he can't ask directly." Any eventual move by Akihito to step down, which would see him replaced by his eldest son Crown Prince Naruhito, appears to have wide support. A survey by the Asahi Shimbun daily published Monday showed that 84 percent of people surveyed backed the idea. 'Sense of relief' Akihito has had surgery for prostate cancer and heart problems, both of which he alluded to in his address, though he stressed that he currently enjoys good health. Public reaction to the speech was sympathetic. "Since his majesty is getting so old, I was worried about his health, but he made his intention clear and the abdication issue came up," said 20-year-old Ryota Utsumi. "It gives me a sense of relief," added Utsumi, who watched the address on a big screen in a busy Tokyo shopping area. It was only the second time Akihito had spoken directly to the nation. The first was in the days after the March 2011 triple earthquake, tsunami and nuclear disaster as he sought to calm a nation undergoing its worst crisis since the war. Japan's imperial house is said to be the world's oldest hereditary monarchy, and according to legend stretches back some 2,600 years in an unbroken line. It is deeply ingrained in the nation's native Shinto religion. The speech came in a historically sensitive month. The country commemorated the US atomic bombing of Hiroshima on Saturday and does so again on Tuesday for Nagasaki. And next Monday Japan pauses to recall the anniversary of its defeat in World War II under Akihito's father Hirohito, an annual event at which the emperor delivers a speech. At last year's event Akihito expressed "deep remorse" over World War II. He has keenly embraced the role of symbol of the state imposed after the conflict ended. Previous emperors including his father had been treated as semi-divine. Akihito is credited with seeking reconciliation both at home and abroad over the legacy of the war fought in his father's name. He has ventured to a number of locales that saw intense fighting, including Okinawa at home and Saipan, Palau and the Philippines abroad, offering prayers for the souls of all the dead and not just Japanese. His life has also been characterised by a more personal openness previously unknown among Japanese royals. His wife Empress Michiko was a commoner when they met and they chose to raise their children themselves, forgoing the traditional use of nannies. (AFP)

Japan's ageing emperor hints at 'historic' abdication?