Key Facts
• Prince Akishino celebrated his 60th birthday on November 30, 2025.
• A press conference was held at Akasaka Higashi Residence in Tokyo on November 25.
• He emphasized the importance of reflecting on WWII and maintaining peace.
• In July, he visited Hiroshima and praised youth efforts to learn about war and nuclear weapons.
• On turning 60, he remarked, “It’s just that kind of age.”
• He noted his son, Prince Hisahito, matured after attending his coming-of-age ceremony in September.
• Prince Akishino addressed the declining number of imperial family members and public duties.
• He suggested reducing the scale of public activities due to aging and fewer royal members.
Summary
Prince Akishino marked his 60th birthday on November 30, 2025, reflecting on the significance of peace 80 years after WWII. During a press conference at the Akasaka Higashi Residence, he highlighted the importance of learning from the past to prevent future conflicts. Recalling his July visit to Hiroshima, he expressed admiration for young people’s efforts to study and share knowledge about war and nuclear weapons. On his milestone birthday, he shared a modest reflection, while also noting his son Prince Hisahito’s maturity after his coming-of-age ceremony. Addressing challenges faced by the imperial family, he acknowledged the impact of aging and a shrinking royal membership, suggesting a reduction in public duties as a practical solution.
