The Japanese Imperial Household Agency is considering downsizing the key ceremonies following the death of former Emperor Akihito, as per his wishes, possibly moving the ceremony location to the Imperial Palace and reducing attendees to about 2,500 people.
On 3 September 2026, NHK reported that the Japanese Imperial Household Agency is reviewing plans to scale down the main funeral ceremonies for former Emperor Akihito, who will turn 93 this year. This is merely preliminary planning despite no current health issues.
The report states that former Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko conveyed to senior Imperial Household officials their desire for the funeral ceremonies to adhere to traditional Japanese imperial customs while minimizing disruption to the public’s daily lives. Since abdicating in 2019, he has rarely appeared publicly and had signaled his wishes via a video message three years ago.
The Imperial Household Agency said it has based preparations on the funeral ceremonies of Emperor Showa, former Emperor Akihito’s father. When Emperor Showa passed away, Tokyo’s Shinjuku Gyoen Park was closed for two and a half months to host the funeral, attended by about 10,000 people from Japan and abroad.
Sources indicate the agency is considering relocating the funeral to inside the Imperial Palace and reducing attendees to around 2,500. Holding the ceremony within the palace buildings would lessen the impact on the public's daily life and significantly reduce necessary expenses, while also facilitating easier security management.
The report states that Emperor Naruhito and Crown Prince Akishino have approved the Imperial Household Agency's approach. Sources close to the agency say the downsizing reflects former Emperor Akihito’s longstanding concern for the feelings and welfare of the Japanese people.
. NHK