Tag Archives: Uyoku

Emperor Akihito’s abdication date confirmed amid growing anti-emperor protests and republican discourse in Japan

Posted on December 11, 2017 by

Finally ending months of speculation and anticipation, it was confirmed on 1 December that Emperor Akihito would formally abdicate on 30 April 2019. His son, Naruhito, will then ascend to the Chrysanthemum Throne, the Heisei era will end and a … Continue reading →

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Emperor Akihito’s abdication reanimates anti-emperor protest movement in Japan

Posted on June 12, 2017 by

Emperor Akihito’s unprecedented video address in August 2016, when he hinted at his wish to abdicate due to the strain of his official role at his advanced age, prompted an avalanche of discussion about Japan’s monarchy: the rumoured troubles between … Continue reading →

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White “Japanese ultra-nationalist” joins anti-Korean hate march in Shinjuku

Posted on May 29, 2017 by

It is part of the inherent nature of being an expatriate that you reinvent yourself in your new country of residence, whether by design or by accident. Japan is a place that seems to allow this more easily than elsewhere, … Continue reading →

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Anti-emperor protest in Kichijōji, west Tokyo, draws ultra-nationalist anger

Posted on November 22, 2016 by

Kichijōji is a placid, well-to-do area in one of the wealthier suburbs of west Tokyo. It remains best known for its expansive park and Studio Ghibli museum. But one Sunday afternoon, as couples and families gathered to enjoy the autumn … Continue reading →

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A curious allergy? Backlash against Aki Okuda at Fuji Rock reveals misunderstanding of political music in Japan

Posted on July 7, 2016 by

Fuji Rock, one of Japan’s premier music festivals, takes place in Yuzawa, Niigata, from July 22nd to July 24th. This year, Aki Okuda, the de facto leader of soon-to-disband student group SEALDs, was invited to speak at a satellite event … Continue reading →

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