Society | Dec 10

Crown Princess Masako vows to serve the people after she becomes Empress next year

Dec 10 (Japan Times) - Crown Princess Masako, who turned 55 on Sunday, vowed to make her best effort to serve the people as she is set to become Empress following May’s Imperial succession.

“I want to devote myself to the happiness of the people so I will make an effort to that end while gaining more experience,” the Crown Princess, who has long been battling a stress-induced illness, said in a statement.

In the statement released by the Imperial Household Agency, the Crown Princess said she is “filled with deep emotions and feels nostalgic” about her birthday this year being the last one in the current Heisei era.

The era will end after Emperor Akihito, 84, abdicates on April 30, the day before the enthronement of his eldest son, Crown Prince Naruhito, 58. The Emperor expressed his desire in August 2016 to step down due to his age and health.

The Crown Princess expressed her gratitude for the Emperor and Empress Michiko, noting that the Imperial Couple “warmly welcomed me and generously continued guiding and watching over us” since her marriage to the Crown Prince was decided about 26 years ago.

Referring to the Imperial Couple’s new life after the succession, the Crown Princess said, “I wish from the bottom of my heart (the Imperial Couple) will unwind from their busy life and spend peaceful days.”

The Harvard and Oxford-educated former diplomat has been struggling with adjustment disorder since December 2003, but she has shown signs of improvement.

This year, she attended a biannual Imperial garden party for the first time in 15 years.

MORE Society NEWS

Bracing for 'Crow Blackouts'

As crows enter their breeding season, their nest-building activities are causing concern among utility providers due to the increased risk of power outages.

BBC Accused of Distorting Smile-Up President's Comments

Japanese company Smile-Up, the former talent agency known as Johnny & Associates, says it has sent a letter of protest to Britain's public broadcaster BBC over its program on sexual abuse by its late founder. (NHK)

Akane Hotta Ties the Knot with Longtime Beau

Actress Akane Hotta announced on the 26th that she has married a non-celebrity man she had been dating, sharing her joy on Instagram.

POPULAR NEWS

Japanese Yen Slides to 34-Year Low, Hits 158 Against the Dollar

In a significant movement in the foreign exchange markets, the Japanese yen has once again depreciated, crossing the 158 mark against the U.S. dollar. This level marks the weakest the yen has been in approximately 34 years, signaling ongoing economic pressures and potentially major shifts in Japan's financial landscape.

Brave Seven-Year-Old Rescues Kidnapped Four-Year-Old Sister

In a remarkable display of bravery and quick thinking, a seven-year-old girl in Kitakyushu successfully rescued her four-year-old sister who had been kidnapped. The incident, which unfolded on April 13th, began when the siblings were approached by a stranger while playing on the street.

Unpacking Japan's Lavish School Lunch

Japan's Cabinet Office's Government Public Relations Office recently stirred controversy with a social media post showcasing an overly lavish depiction of school lunches, leading to a public outcry over the authenticity of the meals presented.

Gotanda JP Building Opens Doors with Hoshino Resort on High Floors

Tokyo's Shinagawa district welcomes a new landmark with the grand opening of the Gotanda JP Building on Friday, April 26, featuring a dog-friendly hotel by Hoshino Resort, co-working spaces, and a vibrant culinary scene.

BBC Accused of Distorting Smile-Up President's Comments

Japanese company Smile-Up, the former talent agency known as Johnny & Associates, says it has sent a letter of protest to Britain's public broadcaster BBC over its program on sexual abuse by its late founder. (NHK)

FOLLOW US