Akihito begins abdication rituals as Japan marks end of era
2019-04-30
Japan's Emperor Akihito waves to well-wishers during a public appearance for New Year celebrations at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, Japan, January 2, 2019. [Photo/Agencies]
TOKYO — Emperor Akihito has begun his abdication rituals as Japan embraces the end of his reign with reminiscence and hope for a new era.
TV footage Tuesday morning showed Akihito entering a shrine to report his retirement to Shinto gods. Only part of the ritual was released to the public. In a palace ritual later in the day, he will announce his retirement before other members of the royal family and top government officials.
Akihito's reign runs through midnight when his son Crown Prince Naruhito becomes emperor and his era begins.
Naruhito will ascend the Chrysanthemum throne in a separate ceremony on Wednesday.
