Japan's new Emperor Naruhito has formally ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne, a day after his father Akihito abdicated from the world's oldest monarchy and ushered in a new imperial era.
The emperor under Japan's constitution is a symbol without political power.
Naruhito officially became emperor at the stroke of midnight local time (1500GMT Tuesday) but the process will be formalised on Wednesday May 01,2019 with the 10-minute ritual, which is off-limits to female royals - even his wife Masako.
It took place on the first day Wednesday May 01,2019 of the new imperial era of Reiwa, meaning "beautiful harmony", which will last throughout Naruhito's reign.
The 59-year-old was presented with the sacred imperial treasures of a sword and a jewel, as well as the seal of state and his personal imperial seal, at a solemn ceremony in the Room of Pine in the Imperial Palace at 10:30am local time (01:30 GMT).
Shortly afterwards, joined by Masako and other royals, Naruhito addressed the nation for the first time as its 126th emperor, as he vowed to stand with the Japanese people.
He swore to "act according to the Constitution... while always turning my thoughts to the people and standing with them".
Naruhito also said he would "reflect deeply on the course" taken by his popular father who was seen as having brought the world's oldest monarchy closer to the people, especially during natural disasters.
"When I think about the important responsibility I have assumed, I am filled with a sense of solemnity," said Naruhito.
The Oxford-educated Naruhito faces the delicate balancing act of continuing his father's legacy of bringing the monarchy closer to the people while upholding the centuries-old traditions of the Chrysanthemum Throne.
Naruhito will greet his first foreign head of state as emperor later this month, when US President Donald Trump visits Japan to meet the new monarch.
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