Japan’s emperor visits shrine for ancient Korean settlers

Japan’s Emperor Akihito, second from left, and Empress Michiko, led by a priest, right, visit Koma Shrine in Hidaka, northwest of Tokyo. (Source: AP)

Japan’s Emperor Akihito on Wednesday visited a shrine dedicated to ancient Korean settlers in a small town north of Tokyo. Akihito, accompanied by his wife, Empress Michiko, paid respects at Koma Shrine in the town of Hidaka as part of a two-day private study trip to the region, palace officials said. Akihito has made short trips to small Japanese towns to learn about local history, traditions and culture for more than a decade.

Nearly 1,800 Koreans settled in the area in the 7th century, and the shrine was established to commemorate their leader. Akihito, 83, listened intently, sometimes asking questions, as the 60th head priest escorted the couple and explained the history of the shrine and the region.

Akihito has noted an ancient Japanese document citing a link between the Japanese monarchy and Korea’s Goguryeo dynasty, as he expressed friendship with South Korea. The emperor and the empress also walked in a nearby park filled with red spider lilies in full bloom.

Preparations for Akihito’s abdication are underway after he expressed a wish last year to retire.