The New Emperor And Empress of Japan Hold First Audience May 1, 2019 Julia Curare New Emperor Naruhito addresses while Empress Masako listens during the 'Sokui-go-Choken-no-Gi' ceremony that Naruhito receives representatives of the people in audience for the first time after his accession to the Chrysanthemum Throne at the Imperial Palace on May 1, 2019 in Tokyo, Japan. Empress Masako of Japan waving from vehicles in Tokyo on May 1, 2019, the first day of the Reiwa Era.