Tokyo: Japan's new Emperor Naruhito inherited the Imperial regalia of a sword, a jewel and seals as proof of succession in his first official duty as emperor Wednesday.
Naruhito succeeded the Chrysanthemum Throne after his father's abdication Tuesday.
Naruhito is to make his first address later in Wednesday's ceremony.
His wife, Empress Masako, a Harvard-educated former diplomat, and their daughter Princess Aiko, were barred from the first ceremony, where only adult male royals participated.
Only his brother, now Crown Prince Fumihito, and his uncle Prince Hitachi were allowed to witness.
Their guests included a female Cabinet minister, however, as the Imperial House Law has no provision on the gender of the commoners in attendance.
The regalia, which include sword and jewel, in a box each and wrapped in cloth, were presented to Naruhito, who wore a tuxedo with decorations.
The emperor under Japan's constitution is a symbol without political power.
People gathered outside the Imperial Palace, where the ceremonies for the new emperor are being held.
Kenji Baba, 78, left his home in Yokohama at six in the morning to take photos outside the palace and mark the historical moment.
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Baba said he plans to show the photos to his ailing wife, who couldn't join him on the trip.
Yuko Hirai, an 18 year-old student from Mie, is hoping the new era will have opportunities for young people to take on more proactive roles.
