Japan's Emperor Naruhito formally proclaims enthronement
Updated 08:36, 23-Oct-2019
CGTN
Japan's new Emperor Naruhito proclaims his enthronement during a ceremony at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, Japan, October 22, 2019. /VCG Photo

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito proclaims his enthronement during a ceremony at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, Japan, October 22, 2019. /VCG Photo

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito formally proclaimed his ascension to the Chrysanthemum throne in an ancient-style ceremony at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo on Tuesday.

"I hereby declare my enthronement at home and abroad," announced Naruhito.

The official ceremony, the equivalent of a coronation, known as "Sokuirei Seiden no gi," took place at the Seiden State Hall.

Japan's Emperor Naruhito (R) leaves Kashikodokoro sanctuary after reporting the proclamation of his ascension to the throne to sun goddess at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, October 22, 2019./ VCG Photo

Japan's Emperor Naruhito (R) leaves Kashikodokoro sanctuary after reporting the proclamation of his ascension to the throne to sun goddess at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, October 22, 2019./ VCG Photo

Some 2,000 guests, including foreign dignitaries from around the world, were invited to the ceremony. 

Emperor Naruhito declared his succession on May 1 following the abdication of his father, becoming Japan's 126th emperor according to the traditional order of succession and will continue in his father's footsteps as a "symbol of the state."

Read more:

Emperor Naruhito vows to fulfill responsibility as Japan ushers in Reiwa era

Reiwa Japan: Keeping degradation or seeking reform?