Full text of Prince Hisahito's written birthday comments 

The following is a translation of the full text of Prince Hisahito's written comments shared on September 4, two days before his 18th birthday. 

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On September 6 this year, I will turn 18 and become an adult. I feel that the days when I was attending kindergarten, elementary school and junior high school were just a while ago. When I think that I am already becoming an adult, I feel that time has passed by quickly. 

Over the past 18 years, many people have offered support in various forms at various times. I would like to express my sincere gratitude. I am also grateful to my parents who have raised me and to my elder sisters. 

As the age of adulthood under the Civil Code changed from 20 to 18 starting April 2022, I will become an adult while I am still in high school. For now, I will work on realizing my future path during my last school year and cherish the little time I have left as a high school student, including through school events. 

I want to continue to deepen my learning through each and every experience, assimilate them and grow.