Japanese Emperor

Japan's Emperor Akihito, with Empress Michiko, waves to well-wishers in the central Japanese prefecture of Mie on April 18. Emperor Akihito takes part in a series of rituals ahead of his abdication.

World News

Emperor Akihito, Japan's 'Surprising Pacifist,' Steps Down After 30 Years

2:03pm April 30, 2019

by Anthony Kuhn

Japan's defeat in World War II "produced in him strong feelings against war and its chaos," says a childhood friend. Akihito has expressed deep remorse at home and abroad for Japan's wartime actions.

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Japan's Emperor Akihito (right) leaves after a ritual to report his abdication to the throne at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on Tuesday.

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Japanese Emperor Akihito Abdicates Throne; New Crown Prince To Ascend

9:29am April 30, 2019

by Matthew S. Schwartz

The 85-year-old emperor is the first to retire in more than 200 years. His son, the Crown Prince Naruhito, will become emperor on Wednesday.

Japan's parliament has approved a law permitting Emperor Akihito (left) to abdicate the throne as he requested. Members of the deliberately small royal family, including Empress Michiko (second from left), attend a spring garden party at the Akasaka Palac

World News

Japan's Emperor Will Be Permitted To Abdicate

10:38am June 09, 2017

by Mark Katkov

Japan's parliament has approved a law allowing Emperor Akihito to abdicate. Last year, Akihito — in oblique language — asked permission to do so, citing his advanced age and poor health.

Emperor Akihito, seen here with Empress Michiko during a state visit to the Philippines last year, could be allowed to abdicate if Japan's legislature changes the law governing the throne.

World News

Japan Explores Ways For Emperor To Abdicate The Throne

3:02pm January 23, 2017

by Bill Chappell

Emperor Akihito, 83, has suggested that he would like to step down from the Chrysanthemum Throne.

Pedestrians in Tokyo watch as Emperor Akihito speaks to the nation. In the rare video message, Akihito said old age and illness may make it difficult for him to fulfill his public duties.

World News

In A Rare Speech, Japan's Emperor Hints At Abdicating

9:05am August 08, 2016

by Elise Hu

Emperor Akihito said his age and poor health could make the performance of his duties impossible. But Japanese law doesn't allow for the emperor to step down.

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