At a time when Japan is grappling with the challenge of a massive surge in prices of essentials, Emperor Naruhito on Thursday (February 23) delivered his first birthday address after he ascended the throne four years ago.

In Japan emperor Naruhito's 1st birthday address, message for those hit by inflation

Japan's new Emperor Naruhito said Thursday he hoped for a year without natural disasters, delivering his first New Year speech since ascending the Chrysanthemum Throne to tens of thousands of well-wishers.

Hope this year will be peaceful without natural disasters: Japan emperor Naruhito

Japanese Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako rode through central Tokyo on Sunday in a motorcade to mark this year's imperial succession as well-wishers waved national flags and held up mobile phones for snapshots of the smiling royal couple.

Japan imperial couple rides through Tokyo in grand enthronement parade