In Japan besides the Western Calendar (西暦) we often use Japanese imperial year (和暦). Currently the imperial year is Heisei (平成) 31 since Heisei started in 1989. We call this current era since 1989 Heisei Era or Heisei Period. The past few eras were changed after the emperor passed away, but our current emperor decided to abdicate the throne due to his age and health. He is now 85 and had a several surgeries, so he will abdicate on the 30th of April this year. For the past few eras the era name was decided after the emperor passed away, but this time the new era name will be discussed by the cabinet on the first of April and will be decided on the same day.
