JAPANESE EMPEROR AKIHITO BEGINS HISTORIC ABDICATION

Media caption The day’s ceremonies began with several private rituals in the Imperial Palace
Emperor Akihito is preparing to step down from the throne, becoming the first Japanese monarch to abdicate in more than 200 years.Tuesday’s ceremonies began with private rituals in Tokyo’s Imperial Palace.

The 85-year-old has been given legal permission to abdicate after saying he felt unable to fulfil his role because of his age and declining health.His son, Crown Prince Naruhito, will ascend the Chrysanthemum throne the next day, beginning a new era.

The emperor in Japan holds no political power but serves as a national symbol.