The GuardianNaruhito has proclaimed himself Japan’s new emperor and vowed to “stand with the people” after performing a series of ancient rituals that culminated in his appearance on the imperial throne alongside his wife, Empress Masako. To mark the enthronement, the Japanese government granted pardons to more than half a million people found guilty of petty crimes, such as traffic violations. Dressed in a dark orange robe, the design of which dates back 1,000 years, Japan’s 126th emperor paid tribute to 85-year-old Akihito’s dedication to public service and said he would continue his father’s work. Facing Naruhito from a position below the imperial throne, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe offered his congratulations. The series of rites, steeped in Japan’s indigenous Shinto religion, began on a morning of heavy rain.

Source: Taipei Times October 22, 2019 15:56 UTC