Having assumed the throne in 2019, the Emperor has never before used his birthday as an opportunity to address the public.

Thursday was Emperor Naruhito's first public birthday address since he ascended to the throne almost four years ago, after delays caused by the COVID-19 outbreak. In it, he called for aid for those suffering from inflation and the pandemic.

Naruhito, addressing thousands of citizens gathered on the palace grounds below, said, "Many people are having difficulties in their daily life amid the pandemic and rising prices" a....