On July 18, 2012, Their Imperial Majesties Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko of Japan along with His Imperial Highness Crown Prince Naruhito “… visited the Meiji Shrine in Tokyo to offer prayers to the emperor’s great-grandfather, Emperor Mutsuhito…”  Click here to view photos.

In other news, the Japanese government is “… making progress on its plans to simplify the funeral ceremony for Emperor Akihito after his request in April to be cremated.”  To read more about this latest information please click here (in English).

Sources: Daylife and Japan Daily Press