Japan's new Emperor Naruhito on Thursday began an elaborate and secretive ritual dating back 1,300 years, giving thanks to the Sun Goddess Amaterasu as part of his enthronement rites.

Japan's emperor performs thanksgiving rite with Sun Goddess

Japanese Emperor Naruhito formally took up his post on Wednesday a day after the abdication of his father, saying he felt a "sense of solemnity" but pledging to work as a symbol of the nation and the unity of its people.

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito officially takes up post

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito formally ascended the Chrysanthemum Throne on Wednesday, a day after his father abdicated from the world's oldest monarchy and ushered in a new imperial era.

Japan rings in new era as Naruhito ascends Chrysanthemum Throne

The monarch has been cutting back on official duties due to health concerns but has avoided saying outrightly that he wants to abdicate

Japanese emperor Akihito to address nation after abdication reports

The Japan government has adopted a one-time law allowing for Akihito's abdication, and this month formally set the date for the event - April 30, 2019

Record crowds celebrate Japan's Emperor Akihito 84th birthday

This would be the first abdication from the Chrysanthemum Throne in two centuries

Japan's ageing emperor hints at 'historic' abdication?