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President Donald Trump is heading to Japan's Imperial Palace to meet the new emperor.

The president and his wife, first lady Melania Trump, will kick off Monday's formal visit at a welcome ceremony with Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

Trump is the first world leader to be meet Naruhito, who ascended to the throne on May 1, opening what is called the era of "Reiwa," (RAY-wah) or "beautiful harmony."

Trump will go later to the Japanese state guest house for meetings, a working lunch and joint news conference with Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

The president will also be the guest of honor at an imperial banquet at the palace hosted by the emperor.

Trump opened a four-day state visit to Japan on Saturday.