Emperor Naruhito marks first year of reign

A tough first year in office for the Emperor and Japan. May be the second and subsequent years will be better.

I love this guy but he hasn't had a very auspicious start. Hope the rest of his reign goes a lot smoother.

Yes, with natural disasters, the empress’ bad health, and now the coronavirus, it has indeed been quite a rough first year.

Plus including the fact that any first year is rough as you have to get your feet wet, this has been especially bad for the new emperor. May both he and the empress be able to use these events, to be an even better royal couple moving forward from this point. Because there is something to be said about being stronger for having overcome adversity.

With all the disasters occurring at once, a superstitious person would consider these events bad omens for the new emperor's reign.

Helluva first year. I’m surprised he’s not like, Dad! Take it back!

He has been very quiet about the Covid-19 pandemic, I would have expected some sort of comment or speech to his people, but maybe the Imperial Household Agency isolation is too strong.

May your reign be of peace and prosperity for all in Japan especially in and after the current situation.

He has been very quiet about the Covid-19 pandemic, I would have expected some sort of comment or speech to his people, but maybe the Imperial Household Agency isolation is too strong.

He did the 10th of April when he received updates about the virus from Omi Shigeru and other officials. He expressed gratitude towards medical personnel and encouraged the public to stay strong and overcome this crisis together. The official comment is on the Kunaicho website (JP only). Also some more info in the below website:

https://www.fnn.jp/articles/-/31769

天皇陛下万歳