Empress Masako also ascended her imperial throne during the ceremony that drew royalty and political leaders from around the world
Japan's Emperor Naruhito completed his ascension to the Chrysanthemum throne in a ceremony steeped in the traditions and grandeur of a monarchy that claims 2,000 years of history.
The rituals cemented a transition that began with his father's abdication earlier this year, and drew political leaders and royalty from around the world. A public parade for the event was postponed after a deadly typhoon, but the government went ahead with the granting of pardons for more than half a million people convicted of minor offences including traffic violations.
The main event took place in the Imperial Palace's Pine Room, where royal attendants drew back purple curtains hanging from two heavily adorned structures housing the imperial thrones, revealing the emperor and empress standing inside.