TOKYO — On Monday, Japan celebrated the 91st birthday of its cherished former Emperor Akihito, who is dedicated to his lifelong research of goby fish while also caring for his wife and fostering his hope for global peace.

Having abdicated in 2019, Akihito passed the Chrysanthemum throne to his son, Emperor Naruhito, and now enjoys the title of Emperor Emeritus.

Since stepping back from official obligations, Akihito has embraced a quieter life, supporting his 90-year-old wife, former Empress Michiko. She is currently in recovery after suffering a broken leg last October, as reported by the Imperial Household Agency.

His daily activities include reading newspapers in the morning and evening and enjoying news broadcasts with Michiko during meals, per updates from the IHA.

To commemorate his birthday, Akihito was set to gather with family and friends for a celebration.

This year, he has expressed particular concern for those impacted by a devastating earthquake that struck on New Year’s Day as well as severe autumn rains in the Noto region of Japan.

Akihito remains engaged in his ongoing study of the classification of Japanese freshwater goby fish, a project he pursues both at a laboratory within the palace and at his home, according to officials.

Japan’s Constitution designates the emperor as a symbol of the state, devoid of political power. During wartime, the emperor was revered as a living deity, a status that was renounced by Akihito’s father following Japan’s defeat in 1945.

Throughout his 30-year reign, Akihito advocated for peace and often engaged in reconciliatory missions, carefully articulating expressions of remorse regarding wartime actions.

Palace representatives note that Akihito continues to honor a moment of silence on significant dates related to the war, such as the conclusion of the Battle of Okinawa, the anniversaries of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, and the day Japan officially surrendered.

According to the palace, the former emperor’s life remains intertwined with his experiences from wartime. Both Akihito and Michiko partake in daily rehearsals of excerpts from a book focusing on the Battle of Okinawa as part of their routine, as shared by the IHA.