[Provisional Translation]

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 thinks about the efforts made by our forebears from ages past in bringing the country to where it is today, and renews his or her hopes for the further development of the nation.

Japan is blessed with an abundance of natural beauty that can be enjoyed every season. Throughout its long history, Japan has fostered a unique culture and distinctive traditions to be proud of around the world. A beautiful society has been created in which people pray for a huge harvest for all, work together to cultivate the fields, share water, and help each other supplement for what is scarce. Through its wisdom and ingenuity, Japan has faced and maintained harmony with nature, and simultaneously, contributed significantly to human activities in a variety of areas, including the advancement of science and technology.

At all times, even in times of a natural disaster, war, or other hardships, those before us paved the way for the next era with both courage and hope. Japan rebuilt itself from a devastated land after the war through the untiring efforts of each individual, and fostered a national character that protects freedom and democracy, respects human rights, and upholds the rule of law. The development Japan has achieved today is founded on the countless difficulties that our forefathers have overcome.

We will pass down this precious peace and prosperity to the next generation while remembering the efforts of our forebears.

Japan’s splendid traditions cannot be preserved unless we continue to adapt to various changing circumstances. Therefore, we will resolutely advance reforms that look ahead to 10, 50, and 100 years from now. As we observe National Foundation Day, I have renewed my determination in this regard. Let us chart a path together towards a future in which we are able to have self-confidence and pride.

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 until now, as well as an opportunity to aspire to pursue further prosperity for Japan.    

Shinzo Abe
Prime Minister of Japan
February 11, 2015