Overview

• Former Emperor Akihito marked his 91st birthday quietly, caring for his wife, Michiko, who is recovering from a broken leg sustained in October.
• The couple has largely withdrawn from public life since Akihito abdicated the Chrysanthemum Throne in 2019, passing the title to his son, Emperor Naruhito.
• Akihito continues his lifelong research into Japanese freshwater goby fish at a palace laboratory and his residence.
• The former emperor remains deeply connected to Japan's wartime history, observing moments of silence on key anniversaries and reflecting on events like the atomic bombings and the Battle of Okinawa.
• Known for modernizing the monarchy, Akihito and Michiko are celebrated for their efforts to bring the imperial family closer to the public and promote reconciliation for wartime actions.