Akihito begins abdication rituals as Japan marks end of era

"We came because today is the last day of (the emperor's era of) Heisei, and we feel nostalgic," said Akemi Yamauchi, 55, standing outside the palace with her husband.

"We like the current emperor. He has worked hard for the people, he is very thoughtful, and kind to everyone," said her husband, Kaname. The couple came from Kyoto, Japan's ancient capital where emperors lived until about 150 years ago.

Japanese television talk shows started a countdown to the midnight transition, and programming was dominated by the abdication and looking back to major events of Akihito's era.