New Japanese era's name to be decided

Japan will announce the name for its new era on April 1, which will come into effect from May 1 after the Crown Prince Naruhito ascends the throne.

The current era's name, under Emperor Akihito, is Heisei. The ascension of a new emperor to the Chrysanthemum Throne spurs a new era in the nation, which is marked by a new name.

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will hold a meeting this Friday to outline his plans regarding the new era's name, according to NHK World.

Emperor Akihito is slated to abdicate the throne a day before Crown Prince Naruhito's ascension in May 2019.