Naruhito

Japan's Emperor marks 63rd birthday

Ahead of his birthday, he spoke to the media at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo.

The Emperor and Empress Masako resumed visits within Japan last year, after a near three-year suspension due to the coronavirus pandemic.

They visited Okinawa Prefecture in October last year, which marked 50 years since its return to Japan from US rule.

The Emperor said they felt very grateful that they were able to meet and talk to the people of Okinawa in person.

He said they met the bereaved families of those who died in the 1945 Battle of Okinawa and felt for each and every person who experienced difficulties and sorrows.

He reflected on the meetings, and said the importance of peace was again engraved deeply in his heart.

The Emperor and Empress attended the state funeral of Britain's Queen Elizabeth in September last year.

The Emperor expressed his deep gratitude for the Queen's kindness toward him on various occasions when he studied at Oxford University and on subsequent visits to the UK.

He said she is a precious person who supports his activities on a daily basis while being also a mentor for him in public and in private.

He noted that she is watching over their daughter, Princess Aiko, with much care from day to day, and he is grateful to Empress Masako for bringing ease and warmth into his life.

Later on Thursday, Emperor Naruhito will give his first birthday greeting to the public at the palace since he ascended the throne.

Source: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20230223_03/