Japan’s government is among a few in the world which has an interesting government structure as it is still considered a monarchy with features that resemble democratic governments such as in the US, Britain, and Canada, among others.
And while the royal family is highly esteemed even in modern Japan, much of the authority and decision-making falls under the shoulders of the State head which is the Prime Minister and his cabinet. The function of the Emperor, being the highest symbol of power in the country still, is kept to ceremonial purposes most of the time, as he oversees how the country is being run by the Prime Minister and his cabinet.
New Emperor to hold a Public Meeting Earlier than Scheduled
In line with this, the public will be given the chance to meet the new Japanese emperor on May 4, just a few days after Crown Prince Naruhito ascends the Chrysanthemum Throne, as shared in a report by Japan Today.
Meanwhile Emperor Akihito is set to resign from the throne on April 30 – the first living Japanese monarch to do so in about two centuries. The crown prince will succeed his post the day after.
Traditionally, The Imperial Household Agency would allow members of the public to make congratulatory visits to the Imperial Palace after “Sokuirei Seiden no Gi”, a ceremony held on Oct. 22 to pronounce the enthronement.
However, the agency decided to move the event in time for the Golden Week holidays starting April 27, which will run for a total of 10 days this year, to incorporate the emperor’s abdication on the 30th, and the imperial succession on the following day.
As there are many activities set to happen during this year’s Golden Week, it would be an opportune time for visitors to celebrate the festivities together with the Imperial throne movement held during this special time in the country.