Naruhito becomes Japan's new Emperor

International Desk: Japan's Emperor Naruhito has given his first address after ascending the throne, expressing his hope for happiness and world peace.

His ascension was formalised earlier on Wednesday in a ceremony that saw him inherit the Imperial Treasures.

A new imperial era called Reiwa - which means order and harmony - has begun and will last throughout his reign.

His 85-year-old father Akihito became the first emperor to abdicate in more than 200 years on Tuesday.

In a short speech at the Imperial Palace, Emperor Naruhito said he hoped "for the happiness of the people... progress of the country, and world peace".

Naruhito, 59, also expressed gratitude towards his father Emperor Emeritus Akihito, his voice breaking when he talked about Akihito's service to his country.
"My father always served the people of Japan," said Naruhito. "He [achieved] great work as an emperor."

Emperor Naruhito took part in several ceremonies on the first day of the Reiwa era.

The most important was the Kenji-to-Shokei-no-gi - or Ceremony for Inheriting the Imperial Regalia and Seals which began at 10:15 local time (01:15 GMT). Although Naruhito became emperor at midnight, these objects formalise his ascension to the throne.

Female royals are not allowed to be there so Empress Masako, Emperor Naruhito's wife, was not present.

Naruhito was presented with two objects - replicas of a sword and a gem - which are passed down through generations of emperors and are seen as the symbols of imperial power.

There is one additional object, a mirror, and together the three make up the Imperial Treasures or Regalia.

However, the mirror - considered the most precious of the treasures - which is believed to be kept at the Ise Grand Shrine in Mie prefecture, never leaves its resting place.

Source: Agencies


risingbd/May 1, 2019/Mukul