In pictures: 30 years of Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko
As Japan embarks on a new era, we look back at the Imperial couple's reign
KEN KOBAYASHI, Nikkei Asian Review photo editor
Japan's Emperor Akihito is the first to abdicate the Chrysanthemum Throne in about 200 years. For three decades, with Empress Michiko by his side, he served as "the symbol of the State and of the unity of the People," as stipulated in the postwar Japanese constitution. Here is a look back at how the Imperial couple shared the nation's joy and heartache during their reign.
1990
Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko set out for a parade at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, after attending the emperor’s enthronement ceremony on Nov. 12.
The empress, seated at a piano, smiles as the emperor plays a cello at the Imperial Palace on Oct. 7. Sayako Kuroda, the couple’s only daughter, looks on. (Courtesy of Imperial Household Agency)
The Imperial couple bow toward the devastated town of Minamisanriku, Miyagi Prefecture, on April 27, after the earthquake and tsunami that struck northern Japan the previous month.
Emperor Akihito spends time with survivors of the March disaster at a shelter in the city of Soma, Fukushima Prefecture, on May 11.
2016
Emperor Akihito announces his intention to retire at the Imperial Palace in August 2016. (Courtesy of Imperial Household Agency)
2018
From left, Emperor Akihito, Empress Michiko, Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako commence the semiannual party at Tokyo's Akasaka Imperial Gardens on Nov. 9 -- the last for the Imperial couple.
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