As Emperor Naruhito acceded to the Chrysanthemum Throne on Wednesday he is widely expected to continue in his father's footsteps by staying close to the people as he observes ongoing changes in society.Former Emperor Akihito, 85, who abdicated Tuesday as the first Japanese monarch to do so in about 200 years, was known for his aspiration for peace and efforts to comfort the vulnerable in Japan, such as those affected by disasters.The new emperor's parents -- former Emperor Akihito and 84-year-old former Empress Michiko -- often visited shelters to meet disaster evacuees and knelt down to ta…READ FULL ARTICLE
