Crown Prince Naruhito

Naruhito caused a furor in May when he suggested that unidentified palace officials caused Crown Princess Masako's troubles. In unusually pointed remarks, Naruhito said Masako's activities had been restricted, a factor that contributed to her stress-induced exhaustion.

On June 8, the Crown Prince said he hadn't been trying to single out anyone.

"I didn't intend to criticize the actions of individuals. I wanted the public to understand the situation," he said in a statement, after discussing the matter with Imperial Household Agency chief Toshio Yuasa. "It breaks my heart that I have brought worry to so many, including the Emperor and Empress."

But Naruhito said he wanted changes at the agency.

"For the sake of Masako's recovery . . . I will talk with the agency, including about the way (the princess and I) conduct our official duties," said the 44-year-old prince. "I want our activities to reflect a new era."

The Japan Times Weekly: June 12, 2004
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