Emperor Akihito's highly anticipated video message to the public Monday could herald a major change in the nation's Imperial system if it leads to a legal change enabling his abdication.
Japanese are awaiting the 82-year-old Emperor's forthcoming statement, which comes just weeks after news reports that he wishes to hand over the throne to Crown Prince Naruhito, 56, out of concern his advanced age could one day prevent him from fully carrying out his official duties.
The Imperial Household Agency has been studying how to communicate the Emperor's feelings to the public at this critical juncture, and decided on a video message rather than a live televised address to avoid the risks of what is said being misconstrued, aides say.