By Masami Takemoto / Special to The Japan News

14:41 JST, October 12, 2024

On Aug. 14, 1945, Japan accepted the Potsdam Declaration, which demanded Japan’s surrender, by the decision of Emperor Showa, and the war ended. The Emperor played a historically significant role for the nation and the people through this decision.

Emperor Showa further contributed to uniting the people for the recovery of the country by conducting nationwide tours during the postwar period. The Emperor felt it was his duty to make visits throughout the country to comfort those devastated by the war and encourage the Japanese people.

At that time, the country was in turmoil, facing food shortages and mass unemployment in the aftermath of defeat. Some government officials were concerned about the Emperor’s safety during the tour. However, his resolve remained firm, and he embarked on his first tour on Feb. 19, 1946, with a visit to Kanagawa Prefecture.

Japan was still occupied at the time and remained so until 1952. The General Headquarters, the Supreme Commander........

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