The document, which provides for the transfer of the Chrysanthemum throne during the lifetime of the present Emperor Akihito to the heir to the throne, was adopted unanimously. As local TV channels report, the law was previously approved by the lower chamber.

It consists of five main and eleven additional articles and provides for "the implementation of the succession in the light of the elderly age of the emperor, his desire and the understanding that it met among the people". However, the law does not indicate that such a transfer of the throne is possible in the future, with other emperors.

Thus, according to the document, the transfer of the throne in Japan will be carried out no later than three years after the promulgation of the law and the decision will be made in consultation with the imperial family. It is quite possible that this will happen in December 2018, when the 30th year of the reign of Emperor Akihito will come to an end, and 2019 will be the first year of the reign of the new emperor.

Recall, Akihito began to rule on January 7, 1989.

It is known that the beginning of the reign of the new emperor symbolizes the beginning of a new era. It has its name, which coincides with the imperial motto. Until today, in Japan was the Heisei era, which means "Calm development". This name will be posthumous for Akihito. While it is unknown how the era of the new emperor will be called.

As reported URA-Inform, the emperor of Japan Akihito turned to the people through TV screens with the message that he abdicates his throne.