The Emperor of Japan turns 79

Emperor Akihito of Japan turned 79 years old. The Emperor's Birthday is a public holiday in Japan. According to the country's Constitution, the monarch is a symbol of the Japanese state and the unity of the people.

At a press conference dedicated to his birthday, Akihito said that despite his age, he would like to continue to carry out his official duties. His father, Emperor Hirohito, carried them out even after 80 years. Akihito expressed confidence that his son, Crown Prince Naruhito, and his brother Prince Akishino, would be able to replace him if his health deteriorated.

Akihito celebrates his 79th birthday with the people. Photo: Reuters

Akihito, together with his wife Michiko, changed the way of life in the imperial family. Despite their constant busyness with official events, they decided to raise their children themselves, without placing them in the care of tutors. Akihito is interested in biology and ichthyology. 25 of his scientific papers on sea gobies have been published. In addition, Akihito is interested in history, loves tennis, and he met Michiko on the tennis court.

The Emperor and his wife pay tribute to those killed during the storm. Photo: Reuters

This is how Akihito celebrated his 77th birthday.

Akihito and his wife. Photo: Reuters

Akihito became emperor in January 1989. Currently, Akihito is the only reigning emperor in the world. His father Hirohito was in power in Japan for the longest period of time, took part in the outbreak of World War II, in some countries he was considered a war criminal and demanded his trial. Up until 1946, it was claimed that the emperor's power over Japan was divine. In 1946, under pressure from the American occupation authorities, the emperor issued the Ningen-sengen rescript - a renunciation of divine nature and origin.

Emperor's family. Photo: Reuters

Akihito's father is Emperor Hirohito. Photo: Reuters