On the occasion of the 15th anniversary of the Great East Japan Earthquake, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako will visit the disaster-affected regions of Iwate and Miyagi on March 25-26, followed by a trip to Fukushima on April 6-7, accompanied by their daughter Aiko. This practice of imperial visits to disaster areas has been a long-standing tradition throughout the Heisei era, and it reflects a continuous commitment to remembering and supporting those affected by natural disasters. However, with concerns about the fading memory of the earthquake and the increasing occurrence of natural disasters, the significance of these visits has been a point of reflection.

As Japan approaches the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in 2025, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako have been increasing their engagements, starting with a visit to Iwo Jima and continuing to Okinawa and Hiroshima. The Imperial Household Agency had begun preparations well in advance for this year’s visits to the disaster areas, emphasizing the importance of addressing the lingering memories of the Great East Japan Earthquake, which was particularly poignant given that the 10th anniversary was overshadowed by the COVID-19 pandemic, preventing them from visiting the sites at that time.

Emperor Naruhito, who was the crown prince at the time of the earthquake, experienced the tremors while residing in the East Palace and has always shown deep concern for the well-being of disaster victims. His thoughts and commitment towards these issues have been shared with his close aides, signifying a profound understanding of the emotional and historical significance associated with revisiting these locations. This upcoming visit is not just a ceremonial act but an essential part of honoring the past and ensuring that the memories of those lost and affected are kept alive in the national consciousness, especially in light of more recent natural disaster challenges.