On 30th April, the Ceremony of the Abdication of HM Empero Akihito at the Seiden (State Hall) was held. Upon abdication, HM Emperor Akihito becomes Emperor Emeritus and HM Empress Michiko becomes Empress Emerita. Addresses by His Majesty the Emperor Text from Imperial Household Agency Today, I am concluding my duties as the Emperor. I would like to offer my deep gratitude to the words just spoken by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on behalf of the people of Japan. Since ascending the throne 30 years ago, I have performed my duties as the Emperor with a deep sense of trust in and respect for the pe ..read more