Prince Hisahito turns 20 as Japan’s government reinforces male-only succession rules
Summary
Prince Hisahito of Japan turned 20 amid increased attention as a future emperor following the government's decision to maintain male-only rules for imperial succession. The new law, passed in July, allows some changes in royal status but keeps the throne limited to male heirs.Key Facts
- Prince Hisahito is the nephew of Emperor Naruhito and second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne.
- He is 20 years old and studies biology as a sophomore at the University of Tsukuba near Tokyo.
- The Japanese government revised the Imperial House Law in July to reinforce male-only succession rules.
- The revision allows female royals to keep their royal status after marrying commoners but does not grant royal status to their spouses or children.
- The law permits adoption of male heirs from distant former royal families to continue the male lineage.
- Many Japanese people want Princess Aiko, Emperor Naruhito’s daughter, to be the next emperor, but the law excludes women from succession.
- The changes have been criticized as outdated and sexist, sparking protests against maintaining a male-only, patriarchal system.
- Prince Hisahito has begun some official royal duties, such as attending state events and public ceremonies.
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