Tag: Reiwa

Japan’s new Emperor Naruhito ascends Chrysanthemum Throne, vows to stand by Japanese people

  by Hiroshi Hiyama Agence France Presse TOKYO, Japan (AFP) — Japan’s new Emperor Naruhito pledged Wednesday to stand by the Japanese people as he formally ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne, the day after his father’s historic abdication ushered in a new imperial era. It was the first time in more than 200 years that a member of the world’s oldest royal family has chosen to step down, and solemn rituals accompanied both Akihito’s abdication and […]

End of an era: Japan’s emperor kicks off abdication rites

TOKYO, April 30, 2019 (AFP) – Draped in ornate golden-brown robes and wearing a towering black hat, Japan’s Emperor Akihito on Tuesday kicked off ceremonies for his abdication, the first in 200 years for the world’s oldest monarchy. Akihito is handing over the Chrysanthemum Throne to his eldest son, 59-year-old Crown Prince Naruhito, in a series of solemn rituals that also usher in the new imperial era named “Reiwa” — meaning beautiful harmony — that […]

Reiwa: A new imperial era name for Japan

  by Shingo Ito and Richard Carter Agence France Presse TOKYO, Japan (AFP) — “Reiwa”: Japan Monday revealed the name of the era that will define the new emperor’s reign when he ascends the Chrysanthemum Throne next month following the first abdication in around 200 years. The new imperial name consists of two characters: “Rei”, which can mean “order” but also “auspicious” and “Wa”, usually translated as “peace” or “harmony.” After weeks of fevered speculation […]

Japan reveals new ‘era’ name ahead of emperor’s abdication

TOKYO, Japan (AFP) — Japan on Monday announced its new imperial era, which will begin next month after Emperor Akihito abdicates, will be known as “Reiwa”, a word that includes the character for “harmony”. The name consists of two characters: “Rei”, which can have meanings related to “order” but also “auspicious” and “Wa”, usually translated as “peace” or “harmony”. The government is expected to explain the official meaning as well as the English spelling for […]