Crown Prince Fumihito of Akishino turned 60 years old on November 30.

At a press conference before his birthday, he said the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II was the most memorable aspect of this year.

The prince emphasized that reflecting on the war is important, not only on milestone anniversaries but at all times, so that each person can learn from the past and reaffirm that such events must never be repeated.

He also spoke about an initiative he encountered this summer in Hiroshima that uses AI to colorize black-and-white photos taken before and after the atomic bombing.

Fumihito said it was a new discovery to sense through the added colors that these events happened close to home.

He added that the technology was an example of how peace can be passed on to future generations.

On a separate note, he said he is happy that his son Prince Hisahito, who took part in his coming-of-age ceremony in September, is enjoying his school life at the University of Tsukuba.

He revealed that Hisahito cooks for himself when staying at his apartment in Tsukuba.

S/ Crown Prince Fumihito / He sent me messages with photos of dishes he made, such as potato salad made with vegetables from our garden and chestnut rice.

On the 35th wedding anniversary with Crown Princess Kiko, he expressed gratitude to his wife for supporting “this selfish husband” so well over these years.

Regarding the birth of his elder daughter Komuro Mako’s first child, he said he felt happy but also somewhat conflicted upon realizing he had become a grandfather.

Fumihito expressed hope to meet the baby if there is an opportunity for the Komuros to come to Japan.

The crown prince is the younger brother of Emperor Naruhito and first in line to the Chrysanthemum throne, followed by Hisahito.