Birthday of the Emperor Emeritus
Historical AnniversariesWhat Is This Day?
December 23rd is the birthday of the Emperor Emeritus (Japan's 125th Emperor, Akihito). He was born on December 23, 1933, in the birthing hall within the Imperial Palace. From 1989 to 2018 -- 30 years -- this date was celebrated as "The Emperor's Birthday," a national holiday in Japan.
From "The Emperor's Birthday" to "The Emperor Emeritus's Birthday"
Following the death of Emperor Showa on January 7, 1989, then-Crown Prince Akihito ascended the throne at age 55 as Japan's 125th Emperor, and the era name changed to "Heisei." From that point on, December 23rd was observed as "The Emperor's Birthday" national holiday throughout the entire Heisei era.
- Abdication: he abdicated the throne on April 30, 2019, and the following day, May 1, Crown Prince Naruhito ascended as Japan's 126th Emperor
- A gap in the holiday calendar: the abdication meant that 2019 became the first year without an "Emperor's Birthday" holiday since the Holidays Act took effect in 1948
- A new Emperor's Birthday: from 2020 onward, "The Emperor's Birthday" moved to February 23rd, the new Emperor's actual birthday
December 23rd Today
Now that he holds the title of Emperor Emeritus, December 23rd continues to be quietly marked as his birthday, with the Imperial Household Agency releasing updates on his well-being each year. Though no longer a national holiday, many people still remember it as a date symbolizing the Heisei era.
Tips for Marking This Day
- Look back on the Heisei era and recall events from that time
- Learn about the history of Japan's imperial system and the Imperial Household
- Learn about how "The Emperor's Birthday" came to move to February 23rd
- Learn about the activities the Emperor Emeritus has taken on over the years
A Birthday That Once Watched Over an Entire Era
December 23rd, once beloved by many as a national holiday, continues to be quietly observed today as the Emperor Emeritus's meaningful birthday. Let this day be an occasion to reflect anew on its origins, alongside memories of the Heisei era.