People in Japan have been invited to offer their condolences for the late Princess Mikasa, whose given name is Yuriko. The princess was the widow of Prince Mikasa, a younger brother of the late Emperor Showa.

The princess passed away due to old age at a hospital in Tokyo on Friday morning. She was 101 years old.

Her residence in Tokyo's Minato Ward was opened to the public on Saturday to allow visitors to sign condolence books.

People who were waiting in front of the gate were guided by Imperial Household Agency officials and wrote their names in the books.

Among the visitors was the former head of the Japan-America Women's Club, Mizuno Kayano.

Mizuno said the organization received support from Princess Mikasa, whom she described as beautiful and respectable. Mizuno expressed deep sorrow, saying that she had recently sent a get-well letter to the princess.

Another visitor was Fujioka Ekou. Her parents had ties with the princess.

Fujioka said she had been told that Princess Mikasa always remained dignified and kind no matter the situation. She added that she came to express her gratitude for the princess's kindness and dedication to society.

Members of the public will be allowed to pay their respects from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. every day for some time to come. Those wishing to sign the condolence books can enter the premises on foot from the south gate.