The Japanese Imperial Family took to Instagram today for their first steps on social media, but those hoping for spontaneous photos will likely be disappointed.
The first 19 photos and videos posted on the official account of the Imperial Household Agency (kunaicho_jp) are carefully selected images of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako taken during recent public appearances.
By 8:30 a.m. CET, there were already 200.000 followers of that account.
The royal family announced last week that they will open an Instagram account.
By entering social networks, the imperial family hopes to attract the attention of younger generations.
Each picture is accompanied by a short description explaining what the emperor was doing that day - receiving foreign officials, admiring a bonsai exhibition or participating in an award ceremony.
Comments are moderated before posting, and the account does not follow anyone.
Since the end of World War II, the emperor no longer has any political role, but remains an important symbolic figure for the country.
Bonus video:
