Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko have visited the Mausoleum of Emperor Showa in western Tokyo to report his abdication on April 30.
The couple waved to well-wishers as they left the Imperial Palace on Tuesday morning.
In Hachioji City, they were welcomed by crowds along the route. The couple arrived at the Musashino Mausoleum before noon.
The Emperor, in a morning suit, walked up to the altar led by a senior Imperial Household Agency official. He offered a sacred sprig and made a deep bow. The Empress, in a long gray dress, followed suit.
The Emperor and Empress visited the Musashino Mausoleum in December 1990 to report his accession to the throne.
Source: ANNnewsCH