A new imperial era began with Emperor Naruhito's accession to the Chrysanthemum Throne on Wednesday, a day after the abdication of his father, former Emperor Akihito. The following are questions and answers related to the history of the Japanese imperial household.Q: What is the role of the emperor?A: The emperor was considered divine under the prewar Meiji Constitution. But the postwar Constitution defines him as "the symbol of the state and of the unity of the people" with no political power. Each emperor is expected to explore his own role in that capacity. Former Emperor Akihito, 85, fr…READ FULL ARTICLE
