Japan's Crown Prince Naruhito marks his 59th birthday on Saturday. He will ascend to the throne on May 1st, one day after his father, Emperor Akihito, abdicates.

The Crown Prince held a news conference ahead of his birthday at his residence in central Tokyo. He said that he feels solemnity when thinking of the path he will soon be embarking upon, but said he will continue to improve himself with the deeds of previous Emperors in mind.

The Crown Prince added that as the symbol of the state, he will carry out his duties as Emperor by trying to keep the Japanese people in his heart, while praying for them and feeling sadness with them when there are times of sorrow, as the current Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko have always done.

The Crown Prince also touched on water conservation issues that he has long been involved with.

He says he will pray for the stability and continuous growth of people's everyday lives while drawing on the knowledge he has acquired by focusing on the importance of disaster prevention and damage mitigation.

The Crown Prince also referred to Crown Princess Masako who has been recuperating from an illness. He said he believes his wife will continue to make efforts each and every day to aim for a full recovery.

He also added that it might not be possible for her to quickly acquire the strength to carry out all of her duties as Empress.

Emperor Akihito's abdication will end the current "Heisei" era under Japan's traditional calendar.

Source: ANNnewsCH