"I am deeply grieved by the many sacrifices and sufferings that have been inflicted upon the peoples of Asia during the war."

"Later in his life, Hirohito looked back on his decision to give the go-ahead to wage a 'defensive' war against China and opined that his foremost priority was not to wage war with China but to prepare…"

"We must never forget the sacrifices made during the war."

"I believe that the Japanese people have the strength to overcome any difficulties."

"I am not a god, but a mortal man. The belief that the Emperor is divine is a false conception."