Akihito's abdication ceremony begins

The ceremony marking Japanese Emperor Akihito's relinquishment of the throne has started at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, in the country's first abdication in 202 years.

The emperor is set to make final remarks in his last official duties, bringing an end to the 30-year era under his reign.

The emperor formally hands over the throne to his eldest son Crown Prince Naruhito at midnight on Tuesday