Emperor Akihito

Episode 01

Crown Prince of a Defeated Nation

Apr 27, 2019 · 73 min

Crown Prince Akihito's childhood is spent in the shadow of a war fought in the name of his father, Emperor Showa (Hirohito). With peace comes democracy. The Crown Prince learns to balance an imperial identity with a sense of social equality. At 19, he attends Queen Elizabeth II's coronation. His first trip abroad offers him fresh insights into Japan's place in the world, and the role of a monarch who reigns, but does not rule.

Episode 02

The Two of Us

Apr 28, 2019 · 73 min

Crown Prince Akihito graduates from Gakushuin University. At a tennis tournament he meets his future wife, Michiko, who becomes the first commoner to join the Imperial Household. In another break with tradition, they raise their own children. Together, the Imperial Couple press ahead with duties in Japan and abroad, even in the face of danger. On the death of his father, Crown Prince Akihito becomes Emperor in 1989.

Episode 03

The Symbol of a Nation

Apr 29, 2019 · 73 min

Crown Prince Akihito ascends to the throne in 1989 and the Heisei Era dawns. Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko devise new ways to interact with the public, and actively seek opportunities to offer comfort after earthquakes and other disasters. They make a landmark diplomatic visit to China with a message of friendship. Throughout his reign, Emperor Akihito has explored his role as the symbol of the State and of the unity of the People. Eventually, foreseeing a time when he can no longer perform his duties as he wishes, the Emperor decides to abdicate.