Japan's new Emperor Naruhito said Thursday he hoped for a year without natural disasters, delivering his first New Year speech since ascending the Chrysanthemum Throne to tens of thousands of well-wishers.

Hope this year will be peaceful without natural disasters: Japan emperor Naruhito

Japanese Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako rode through central Tokyo on Sunday in a motorcade to mark this year's imperial succession as well-wishers waved national flags and held up mobile phones for snapshots of the smiling royal couple.

Japan imperial couple rides through Tokyo in grand enthronement parade

US President Donald Trump met new Japanese Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako today in the ceremonial highlight of a state visit overshadowed by trade tensions between the two allies.

Trump meets new Japanese emperor in ceremonial highlight of state visit

Japan's Emperor Naruhito formally invested on Wednesday (May 1) in a solemn ceremony which took place in the Imperial Palace in the heart of Tokyo after his father stepped down on the day before.Watch this video to know more.

WION Gravitas: Japan's Crown Prince Naruhito Ascends to the Throne

Japanese Emperor Akihito abdicated on Tuesday (April 30) thanking the people for their support over the last three decades and expressing hope for a peaceful future. Watch this video to know more.

WION Gravitas: Emperor Akihito abdicates, ending three-decade reign

Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's cabinet signed off on the legislation which will allow Akihito to abdicate his throne

Japan cabinet approves bill allowing emperor's abdication

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

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