Japan’s new Emperor Naruhito is set to formally mark his ascension to the Chrysanthemum throne on Wednesday, a day after his father became the first emperor to abdicate in two centuries.
In his first act as emperor, he will inherit Japan’s Imperial Treasures in a deeply symbolic ceremony.
The emperor in Japan holds no political power but serves as a national symbol.
Emperor Akihito, 85, who chose to abdicate due to his age and failing health, stepped down on Tuesday.
“I hereby pray for the well-being and happiness of our country and people of the world,” he said in his final address.
The new imperial era “Reiwa”, whose name signifies order and harmony, began at midnight local time, and will last as long as Naruhito’s reign.
The Kenji-to-Shokei-no-gi – or Ceremony for Inheriting the Imperial Regalia and Seals – will begin at 10:15 local time (01:15 GMT).
Naruhito, 59, will receive three objects – a mirror, sword and gem – which are passed down through generations of emperors and are seen as the symbols of imperial power. He will then give his first address as new emperor.
“In 1989 when Akihito [ascended the throne], he spoke about social welfare and peace, These were goals that Emperor Akihito worked towards during his Heisei era, and his interactions with those stricken by disease or disaster endeared him to many Japanese.
“I think from Naruhito’s first words, we’ll have a good sense of what the new emperor’s plans will be. I think it will set the tone [of the new era],” Professor Ruoff said.
Emperor Akihito took up the role of a diplomat during his reign, becoming an unofficial ambassador for Japan and travelling extensively to other countries, – something Naruhito is expected to continue.
Naruhito is Japan’s 126th emperor. He attended Oxford University, and became crown prince at the age of 28.
In 1986, he reportedly met his wife, Crown Princess Masako Owada. at a tea party. They married in 1993.