Emperor Naruhito celebrated his 66th birthday on the 23rd, holding a press conference at the Imperial Palace, where he shared his thoughts on significant anniversaries marked this year: the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake and the 10th anniversary of the Kumamoto Earthquake. He expressed poignant feelings about the immense damage caused by these disasters, noting, "Even now, reflecting on them pains my heart," and emphasized his commitment to remember and support the afflicted areas alongside Empress Masako.

The Emperor acknowledged the contributions of many, including international aid, in the recovery efforts while also recognizing that despite advances in rebuilding infrastructure, there remain challenges, particularly in restoring livelihoods and communities. He articulated a deep sense that the scars from these disasters have not fully healed, highlighting that the aftermath varies for individuals and cannot simply be measured by the passage of time. He underscored the importance of passing on experiences and lessons from these large-scale disasters while reiterating the need to remain prepared for future occurrences.

Lastly, addressing the changing dynamics within the imperial household, the Emperor noted the continued decrease in the number of royals and the resulting need to scale back public activities. However, he reaffirmed a commitment to public service that aligns with contemporary societal needs, emphasizing the importance of empathy towards those in difficult situations. On a personal note, he shared insights into family life, describing how spending time with his daughter, Aiko, enriches their lives, and expressed happiness in watching Japanese athletes compete in the Winter Olympics, celebrating their achievements and the spirit of sportsmanship that transcends borders.