The Emperor of Japan celebrated his 75th birthday Tuesday by waving three times to the cheering crowds outside of the Imperial Palace. 
But that will be all, as he canceled some events and did not give his annual birthday press conference. This may be due to the ailing Emperor’s health, which has been causing him some problems recently.
Akihito suffered from an irregular pulse earlier this month, followed by a diagnosis of a stomach ulcer. Doctors say the ulcer is related to stress.
“I feel my physical condition is getting better,” Akihito said in a statement in lieu of a press conference, adding that it pains him that “matters concerning my and my family’s health have been worrying people.”
“I would like to continue to make efforts for the sake of the country and people and in search of a better form of the imperial household, while taking the advice of doctors,” he said.
What may be causing stress related illnesses for the Emperor is the issue of succession. His son and heir, Crown Prince Naruhito, has failed to produce a son along with his wife, Crown Princess Masako. The two have a 7 year old daughter, Aiko. But the young girl cannot succeed to the Chrysanthemum Throne since females are not allowed to be reigning Empresses, under a post World War II law.
There was talk of changing the rules of succession. But that ended when the Emperor’s second son, Prince Akishino and his wife Princess Kiko, had a son, Hisahito, 2 years ago.
However, there is speculation in the Japanese media that there is still talk of allowing Aiko to be in line to the throne, and it even is causing some divisions.
Emperor Akihito is not the first member of the Imperial family to suffer from stress related illnesses. His wife, Empress Michiko, suffered from ulcers last year due to stress. And Crown Princess Masako’s mental problems caused her to withdraw from public life for 5 years. She made a rare appearance earlier this year when the King of Spain made a visit to Japan.
High expectations and the rigors of life in Japan’s tradition-bound palace seem to have taken their toll on its members.
Though no longer revered as living gods, members of the imperial family live tightly regimented lives and are rarely allowed candid moments in public, making their appearances highly scripted and giving them little time to relax.
Recent Comments