Japan’s Emperor Akihito turns 84, thanks people over abdication plans

In this 2015 photo, Japan’s Emperor Akihito waves to well-wishers as he appears on the balcony of the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. The Japanese Emperor celebrates his 84th birthday on Saturday, December 23, 2017 with a promise to fulfill his duties until his abdication on April 30, 2019. (AP FILE PHOTO)

TOKYO (AP) — Japan’s Emperor Akihito has marked his 84th birthday on Saturday with a pledge to fulfill his duties until the day of his abdication in April 2019.

Akihito waved to thousands of well-wishers from a balcony of the royal palace. He will attend birthday celebrations at the palace later Saturday. He spoke in advance at a news conference earlier this week.

The government has formally approved this month Akihito’s abdication for April 30, 2019. His elder son Crown Prince Naruhito is anticipated to ascend the Chrysanthemum Throne the next day, May 1, 2019.

In 2016, Akihito expressed his wish to abdicate, citing his age and health as a concern. He ascended the throne in January 1989 after the death of his father, Emperor Hirohito, beginning the Heisei Era.

The last emperor to abdicate was Kokaku in 1817.                        /kga