Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday sent congratulatory messages to Japan's new Emperor Naruhito on his ascension to the Chrysanthemum Throne.

Xi said China and Japan are neighbors with a long history of friendly exchanges.

The two sides should work together to promote peaceful development and create a better future of bilateral ties, Xi added.

Meanwhile, Xi also extended his greetings and wishes to former Emperor Akihito.

Emperor Naruhito formally took up his post on Wednesday, a day after the abdication of his father. During the mid-morning investiture ceremony, the new emperor said he felt a "sense of solemnity" but pledged to work as a symbol of the nation and the unity of its people.