Japan's Emeror Akihito and his wife Empress Michiko. "This is the first abdication by an emperor in 200 years and the first under the (post-war) constitution," Abe told reporters after announcing the recommendation. Japan's Prince Hitachi and his wife Princess Hanako attend a meeting of the Imperial Household Council. Photo: ReutersOnce considered divine, Japan’s emperor is defined in the post-war constitution as a "symbol of the state and of the unity of the people", but has no political power. The last time a Japanese emperor abdicated was in 1817.

Source: Otago Daily Times December 01, 2017 06:22 UTC