The emperor of Japan abdices from the throne. The 12-year-old prince, his nephew.

He is the first Japanese monarch to leave the throne in over 200 years.

The 85-year-old has been given permission to abdicate after saying he feels unable to fulfill his duty because of declining age and health, the BBC reports, translates Periscope.

Crown prince Naruhito will assume the throne Wednesday, thus beginning a third era in the country that has the third strongest economy in the world.

First Ceremonies

In his final speech, in a Western-style breakfast coat, Akhito said that “wants Japan and the world peace and prosperity”.

I am deeply grateful to the people who accepted me as a symbol and supported me,” he said.

Akihito's reign has been marked by his interactions with people suffering from sickness and calamity, who have endeared him to many Japanese.

At the first private ceremonies of the day, the emperor declared his dedication to his mythologytic ancestors of the Japanese royal family.

Over 300 people had attended, including Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Crown Prince Naruhito and Crown Princess Masako.

Prince Hisahio

A few days earlier in the closet of the young Japanese prince's school, Hisahios, who is only 12 years old, had been found two kitchen knives and security authorities feared for his safety. /Periscope