Emperor Naruhito Enthroned

What

The Nikkei Newspaper described the enthronement of Japan's 126th emperor, Emperor Naruhito, succeeding his father Emperor Emeritus Akihito (the first emperor to abdicate the throne before death since 1817). Before the ceremony, Emperor Naruhito signed documents to hold the ceremony as affairs of state. During the handover ceremony, the sword and jewel, two of the "Three Sacred Treasures" were passed over, and the emperor gave a speech to the 300 guests in attendance. He pledged to work with the people and abide by the constitution, similar to his father's speech in 1989. Across the country, many celebrated the event as it marked the beginning of a new era.

Background

Following WW2, the United States established a new constitution for Japan, separating the religious and political powers of the Emperor, and delegating political responsibilities to the prime minister. Thus, the imperial family now holds a similar role as the British monarchy, acting as a symbol for the nation. While historically the emperor's duties involved mostly prayer, Emperor Emeritus Akihito was the first to demonstrate his approachability, marrying a commoner (for the first time in 2,680 years), championing the Paralympics, visiting houses of leprosy, and atoning for some of Japan’s wartime history.

Importance

While there is little political controversy surrounding the new emperor, there are some notable topics. First, there have been many recent (failed) legal challenges to the assignment of the handover ceremony as an affair of state, as the Japanese constitution states that the government may not sponsor religious ceremonies. Because the imperial family is believed to trace its roots to the Shinto sun goddess Amaterasu, and many of the elements in the handover ceremony are of Shinto origin. 

Additionally, although there are many male heirs in line for the throne after Naruhito, Emperor Naruhito has no male sons. In 2006, the Asahi Newspaper published a poll that 82% would approve of a female heir inheriting the throne, currently blocked by the Imperial Household Law. Discussion subsided after Emperor Naruhito gained a nephew from his brother; however, polling remains strong on the issue. While Abe promised to consider the idea after the enthronement of Naruhito, the only written implications of women being included in imperial activities is an addendum to the law allowing Emperor Emeritus Akihito to abdicate, encouraging lawmakers to consider allowing the sons of female heirs to be considered for the throne.