FILES-JAPAN-ROYALS-AKIHITO-MICHIKO

(FILES) This file photo taken on March 23, 1934 shows Japan's Emperor Akihito when he was three-months-old.? - Japan's outgoing Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko dramatically modernised the tradition-bound monarchy, bringing themselves closer to the public and boosting popular support for the household. (Photo by JIJI PRESS / JIJI PRESS / AFP) / Japan OUT / TO GO WITH AFP PROFILE "JAPAN-ROYALS-AKIHITO-MICHIKO" BY HIROSHI HIYAMA