The Government of Japan Announces “REIWA” as the Name for the New Era

Japan Information and Culture Center (JICC) - Press Release No. 27- 2019

On April 1, a month ahead of the abdication of the Emperor of Japan on April 30, the Government of Japan announced “Reiwa” as the name for the new era beginning on May 1.
 
Following the enforcement of the Special Measures Law on the Imperial House Law concerning the abdication of the Emperor and other matters on April 30, 2019, His Majesty the Emperor will abdicate on the same day and His Imperial Highness the Crown Prince will accede to the Throne on May 1, 2019.
 
It was decided at the Cabinet Meeting on April 1, 2019 that the new Japanese era be called "Reiwa" from May 1, 2019, upon the accession to the Throne of His Majesty the Emperor Naruhito.
 
"Reiwa" means "beautiful harmony". The name “Reiwa” comes from a passage of Manyoshu, the oldest collection of Japanese poetry. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe explained this name carries the meaning that culture will be born and nurtured as people bring their hearts together in a beautiful manner.