Japanese Emperor Akihito has started a day of ceremonies in the Imperial Palace as he prepares to step down from the throne on Tuesday.
It'll make him the first monarch to abdicate in more than 200 years.
His son, Crown Prince Naruhito, will ascend the Chrysanthemum throne the next day.
Akihito had expressed a desire to abdicate in 2016 due to his age and declining health.

Trump says US could restart Iran strikes 'if they misbehave'
Israeli military urge southern Lebanon residents to evacuate
Russia's Primorsk port hit as Ukraine launches wave of drone strikes
At least six dead, thousands displaced as heavy rains hit northeastern Brazil
Austrian police arrest man over poisoned baby food case
