Emperor Naruhito planted rice at the Imperial Palace on April 17. 

The Emperor planted the 720 seeds while wearing a grey jumper, carefully separating them into four plots. 

Two varieties of rice will be grown as last year: one non-glutinous variety, and one mochi rice variety. 

The annual event at the Imperial Palace was started by Emperor Naruhito’s grandfather, Emperor Showa. 

The planting ritual is done to pray for a good agricultural harvest for farmers. 

The rice grown here will be harvested in the fall and used for various Imperial rites.