The Crown Prince on Friday celebrated his 41st birthday and said his hope for the future is that the Imperial family will have more contact with citizens to reflect current times while still maintaining ancient traditions.

"While regarding highly the traditions of the Imperial family . . . it is important for us to precisely ascertain what the people of Japan hope for and expect of the Imperial family," he told a news conference at Togu Palace.

He said he envisages his family's role in the 21st century as being in harmony with citizens, to share their joys and sorrows. He said his official duties in the future will be based on more sensitive communication with the people.

The eldest son of the Emperor and Empress, the Crown Prince expressed his gratitude to his wife of 7 1/2 years for doing such a wonderful job as Crown Princess.

"It is thanks to Masako that I have learned of things I had not previously noticed, and had my views of and interest in different things broadened since our marriage," the prince said.

The Crown Prince also expressed sadness over the Ehime Maru, which sank after being hit by a surfacing U.S. submarine off the Hawaiian coast on Feb. 9. He said, "My heart is in great pain." Nine Japanese, including four teenage students, presumably died in the accident.

According to the Imperial Household Agency, the Crown Prince and Crown Princess have spent their free time recently horseback riding and skating.

The couple also took a three-day holiday at Okushiga Kogen, Nagano Prefecture, where they skied together for the first time since their marriage in 1993, agency officials said.