Emperor Turns 66 Ahead of Disaster Milestones

Jiji Press

8:06 JST, February 23, 2026&

TOKYO (Jiji Press) — The Emperor turned 66 on Monday, ahead of the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake in March and the 10th anniversary of the Kumamoto earthquakes in April.

“Even now, remembering the disasters pains my heart,” the Emperor said at a press conference prior to his birthday.

“I will remain close to the people, praying for the absence of disasters, sharing their joys and sorrows and listening to the voices of those in disaster-affected areas,” he said.

To inspect the progress of reconstruction following the disasters 15 and 10 years ago, the Emperor plans to visit the northeastern prefectures of Iwate, Miyagi and Fukushima this spring and the southwestern prefecture of Kumamoto this autumn, according to informed sources.

“Along with [Empress] Masako, I will continue to keep the disaster-affected areas in my heart,” he said.

Last year, marking 80 years since the end of World War II, the Imperial couple and their daughter, Princess Aiko, visited various parts of the country to pay respects to those who died in the war and interacted with war survivors, bereaved families and storytellers.

“Each memory shared with us remains deeply etched in our hearts,” Emperor Naruhito noted. “It is vital to learn humbly from past history, deeply reflect on it, and consider and strive for what is necessary to safeguard peace.”

Meanwhile, the Emperor reiterated that the Imperial Family exists to “constantly wish for the happiness of the people and share their joys and sorrows.”

“It is important to accurately sense the winds of the times and consider the appropriate form of official duties for each era,” he added.

The Emperor also expressed gratitude to his wife, Empress Masako, for her support in daily life and official duties.

Regarding Princess Aiko, who has broadened her activities, including her first official foreign visit, to Laos, last year, Emperor Naruhito said he hopes that she will “grow through many experiences and faithfully fulfill her duties as a member of the Imperial Family.”

“I feel fortunate to spend each day feeling our mutual gratitude and the bonds of our family,” he said.

The Emperor revealed that he recently watched the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics on television with his family. “I was also very pleased to see the achievements of Japanese athletes,” he added.