Message from the Prime Minister on the Occasion of National Foundation Day

National Foundation Day is a public holiday for the purpose of "recalling the founding of the nation and cultivating a mindset of love of the nation." It is a national holiday on which each Japanese person recalls how the nation was founded, thinks about the efforts made by our forebears to date, and renews his or her hopes for the further development of the nation.

We, the Japanese people, have taken pride in our long history and unique culture, protected our beautiful natural environment, cherished harmony, and lived in a society in which families and communities support one another. Japan now enjoys a high reputation in the international community in many areas, including science, technology, and culture and art, and is contributing to human activities.

Throughout its long history, Japan has countless times faced great difficulties and trials. However, each time, our ancestors brought themselves to their feet full of courage and hope and overcame numerous challenges by bringing about transformations of society, including the Meiji Restoration, our postwar reconstruction, and our high economic growth in the post war era. We have also nurtured a national character that protects freedom and democracy, respects human rights, and upholds the rule of law, bringing us to the present day. We should not forget the fact that the advances Japan enjoys today lie atop the foundation of each individual’s unceasing efforts.

This year also marks a major milestone, as it has been one hundred years since the beginning of the Showa era. Learning from the wisdom and tireless efforts of those who lived through the turbulent years of Showa, overcame the previous war and numerous natural disasters, and laid the foundations of today’s Japan, I am determined to work so that those who will carry the next era forward can believe in Japan’s future and hold fast to hope. To this end, we will make the Japanese archipelago stronger and more prosperous, protect the lives and livelihoods of the people, and firmly pass on Japan’s proud national character to the next generation that will shape the future. As we commemorate National Foundation Day, I renew my determination in this regard.

I sincerely hope that for you, my fellow citizens, National Foundation Day will be an opportunity to appreciate the efforts made by people who went before us as you look back on the path Japan has taken, as well as an opportunity to aspire to pursue further prosperity for Japan.