Japanese Emperor Celebrates 20 Years on the Throne
2009-11-12 11:25
Emperor Akihito, celebrating 20 years on the throne, says his biggest worry is that future generations in Japan may forget the past.
Akihito told a news conference marking Thursday's anniversary of his ascension that he thought his father, the late Emperor Hirohito, was reluctant about the war fought in his name, adding war memories still bedevil ties with other Asian countries.
Many people around the world still associate Hirohito with Japan's military campaigns.
The 75-year-old Akihito also mentioned Japan's rapidly ageing population and shaky economy, but said he was more worried about his people's understanding of history.
[Emperor Akihito, Japan]:
"I am rather worried that past history may be gradually forgotten."
Akihito's ascension to the throne in 1989 opened the way for the imperial family to help reconcile Japan with its former colonies, although ties have been frayed at times.
In 1992, Akihito became the first Japanese emperor to visit China, where he made a statement of regret about the war.
In his remarks Thursday, the emperor said history can help prepare for the future.
[Emperor Akihito, Japan]:
"I think it is important to thoroughly know past historical facts and to prepare for the future."
Supporters and protesters were also noting the anniversary.
[Michiko Fudeyasu, Right Wing Activist]:
"The imperial couple are like the parents to Japanese people -- emperor the father and empress the mother."
[Naoki Kimura, College Student]:
"Like the baseball player Ichiro... I think he is a great person whom I want to learn from."
Critics say Japan has tried to whitewash its wartime past and the responsibility of the emperor, then revered as divine.
Some hope the new government of Prime Minister Yukio Hatoyama may show greater willingness to face up to Japan's wartime aggression, in a bid to improve ties with Asia.
