Emperor Naruhito 'filled with a sense of solemnity' as he succeeds his father
In a ceremony, Naruhito was presented with the Imperial regalia of a sword and jewel, each in a box and wrapped in cloth.
Wednesday 1 May 2019 09:36, UK
Japan's new emperor has vowed to follow his father's example by devoting himself to peace and sharing the joys and sorrows of his people.
Emperor Naruhito formally succeeded to the Chrysanthemum Throne at midnight after his father Akhito became the first ruler to abdicate in more than 200 years.
In his address to the people, the 59-year-old said: "When I think about the important responsibility I have assumed, I am filled with a sense of solemnity."
Emperor Naruhito added that he will "reflect deeply" on the path trodden by past emperors and promised to abide by the Constitution to fulfil his responsibility as a national symbol.
Wednesday morning's ceremony was Naruhito's first official duty in his new role.
He was presented with the Imperial regalia of a sword and jewel, each in a box and wrapped in cloth.
Only adult male royals participated in the ceremony. His wife Empress Masako and their 17-year-old daughter Princess Aiko were not allowed to take part.
Japan celebrated its 126th emperor in a festive mood during an imperial succession that was triggered by retirement rather than death.
Crowds gathered outside the palace on Tuesday to reminisce about Akihito's era, while others joined midnight events officially took place.
While being driven to the palace, Naruhito smiled and waved at the cheering people lining the streets.
Under Japan's constitution, the emperor is a figurehead who does not have any political power.
Commentators say the new emperor may turn his attention to global issues, including disaster prevention, water conservation and climate change - issues that could appeal to Japan's young.
Naruhito, who is the first emperor to study abroad, is regarded as a new breed of royal - and his outlook was forged by his parents, who themselves defied tradition.
He is the first monarch to be brought up by his parents, as Akihito and Michiko, who was born a commoner, chose to take care of their children rather than having them looked after by palace staff.
Naruhito was a student at the University of Oxford, where he researched the history of the River Thames transportation systems.