Akihito

Profession: Emperor of Japan

Nationality:

Biography: Akihito reigned as the Emperor of Japan from 1989 until his abdication in 2019, when he was succeeded by his son, Naruhito. Per Japanese imperial tradition, he will be formally known as Emperor Heisei upon his death. He succeeded his father, Hirohito, the wartime emperor, in 1989.

Known for his interest in marine biology, Akihito is a published scholar, having written articles for journals such as Science and Nature. His reign was marked by a personal touch to ruling, particularly in images of him and his wife meeting victims of disasters such as the 2011 earthquake and tsunami, as well as his commitment to pacifism in the face of a swing toward right-wing government in Japan.

In 2016 he made a rare television address where he expressed a desire to abdicate due to advanced age and failing health. The Japanese parliament passed legislation allowing him to become the first Japanese emperor to abdicate since Emperor Kōkaku in 1817. His abdication ceremony took place on April 30, 2019, and he was succeeded by Naruhito on May 1, who will govern in the Reiwa period.

Born: December 23, 1933
Birthplace: Tokyo, Japan
Age: 90 years old

Generation: Silent Generation
Chinese Zodiac: Rooster
Star Sign: Capricorn