Japan began a new imperial era today. Following the abdication (the first in some 200 years) of Emperor Akihito (ending the "Heisei" era), his son Naruhito assumed the throne this morning as japan's 126th emperor, inaugurating the new "Reiwa" ("Beautiful Harmony") era. I think abdication is a dubious - and possibly dangerous - practice when an office is intended to be life-long and is modeled in some sense on the family relationship. But, in this era of longevity (with all the ills which accompany increasing old age), abdications are becoming much more common and may mark an inevitable transformation of such hitherto lifelong offices.
Naruhito is now "Tenno," which apparently means "the ruler sent from heaven," a primarily religious and cultural concept, somewhat analogous to the western Christian concept of an anointed king or queen. The depredations of the 20th century have significantly reduced the number and prominence of such figures in our modern world, with no obvious benefit to societies desperately in need for forging significant social bonds against the increasing fragmentation which marks modernity. Luckily for Japan, amid all the changes imposed upon that ancient society as a result of defeat in war, the imperial institution has survived as a much needed symbol of continuity and social unity. General Douglas MacArthur had his faults, which ultimately led to his much needed dismissal by President Truman (and his famous "fade away"), but, as Supreme Commander of the American occupation of conquered Japan he did have the good sense to preserve Japan's imperial throne.
Ironically, the first foreign visitor the new emperor and empress will host is expected to be our own President Trump. Not unlike President Trump's forthcoming state visit to the United Kingdom in June, this visit will highlight the contrast in personal and institutional values represented by the royal hosts and their American guest.
A more public enthronement ceremony will take place on
October 22, during which Naruhito will parade through the streets of the
capital and be congratulated by other world leaders and royalty.
A new era dawned in Japan on Wednesday as Naruhito officially became emperor at midnight following his father's historic abdication from the Chrysanthemum Throne, the world's oldest monarchy.
The 59-year-old Naruhito will formally take possession of the sacred imperial regalia at a solemn ceremony later Wednesday but he became the 126th emperor at the stroke of midnight, ushering in the "Reiwa" imperial era.
His father, the popular 85-year-old Akihito used his final royal speech to offer his "heartfelt gratitude to the people of Japan" and pray for global peace as the curtain came down on his 30-year reign that saw him transform the role of emperor.
During a 10-minute ceremony in the Imperial Palace's elegant Room of Pine, he stopped to offer a hand to his wife of 60 years, Michiko, as she stepped down from the stage and poignantly paused before exiting the room, bowing deeply to the 300 invited guests.
It was the first time in more than 200 years an emperor had stepped down in Japan and kicks off the "Reiwa" era – meaning "beautiful harmony" – that will last as long as Naruhito is on the throne
May 1 — regalia inheritance (10:30-10:40 a.m.): This is the first stage of Crown Prince Naruhito’s accession to the throne. Chamberlains will put the seals, sword and jewel on desks in front of the new Emperor as proof of his rightful succession.
The ceremony is observed by a small group that includes adult male royalty and representatives of the three branches of the government, including Abe and his Cabinet. Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko will not be present.
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