After shock, Japan warms to emperor's possible abdication

Japanese will tune in to Emperor Akihito's rare video message on Monday following reports that he would abdicate in the next few years, which initially came as shock but was welcomed by many as a deserved rest for the 82-year-old beloved monarch.

In the prerecorded message, Akihito will talk about his duties as a "symbol emperor" as stipulated by the constitution, palace officials said. He will most likely avoid the explicit expression of abdication, which would involve political and legal procedures that he is not allowed to discuss.

Akihito still works, though his aides have shifted some of his duties to Crown Prince Naruhito - the elder of his two sons and most likely successor. Yet, Akihito has referred to his old age in recent years, admitting to making small mistakes at ceremonies. During the August 15, 2015, anniversary of the end of World War II, Akihito started reading a statement when he was supposed to observe a moment of silence.