(Japan, 24th) Japan's Emperor Emeritus Akihito celebrated his 92nd birthday on the 23rd. Japanese media reported that Akihito is the longest-lived emperor in recorded history.
According to Kyodo News, citing the Imperial Household Agency, this year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the war. The Emperor Emeritus paid attention to the journeys of the Emperor and Empress to Iwo Jima, Okinawa, Hiroshima, and Nagasaki to mourn the war dead. He also watched television programs introducing 'war history' that is gradually being forgotten, and looked back on the previous great war. In terms of health, in May the Emperor Emeritus was diagnosed with 'asymptomatic myocardial ischemia' and has started new medication. Reportedly, his condition is relatively stable at present.
In May this year, Akihito was hospitalized for detailed heart examinations and was diagnosed with 'asymptomatic myocardial ischemia.' Subsequently, for treatment and to use new medication for his heart, he was again hospitalized in July.
The Imperial Household Agency stated that Akihito's condition remains relatively stable. Without putting strain on his heart, he takes daily walks with Empress Emerita Michiko and continues exercises to prevent muscle loss.
Additionally, Akihito currently visits the Biological Research Institute on the Imperial Palace grounds twice a week, participates in online "Goby Fish Taxonomy Study Meetings," and continues his lifelong studies on goby fish, which he regards as his life’s work.
Events the Imperial couple attended this year include a banquet in September to celebrate their grandson Hisahito’s coming of age, and in October, an interaction with local residents while staying at the Hayama Imperial Villa in Kanagawa Prefecture.
On the 23rd, Akihito was to receive birthday congratulations from the Emperor and Empress, as well as family members including his granddaughter Princess Aiko, at his residence.