Emperor Akihito told an old friend in July that he hopes a system is created allowing Imperial abdication, offering the first revelation of the monarch's thoughts on how his reign should end.

The Emperor also expressed concern that the Imperial court may be split into factions in the event that a regent is appointed, according to the friend.

Mototsugu Akashi, 82, quoted Emperor Akihito as saying in a private conversation that he hopes to see a "system in which abdication is possible not only for myself but in the future."