Japan’s Future Emperor Marks Coming-of-Age
TOKYO — Japan’s Prince Hisahito has made history as the first male royal to reach adulthood in four decades, bringing both celebration and concern to the nation. Saturday’s elaborate ceremonies celebrated his transition into adulthood but also highlighted worries that he might be the last male heir in the country’s storied Imperial family.
Hisahito, who is second in line for the Chrysanthemum Throne, began his university studies at Tsukuba University, focusing on biology. He has a particular fascination with dragonflies and has even contributed to a scientific paper on the species found on the grounds of his family’s estate in Tokyo.
Born on September 6, 2006, he is the only son of Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko, having two older sisters. Hisahito’s coming-of-age ceremonies were delayed for a year so he could concentrate on his college entrance exams, a decision that reflects the balance he seeks between royal duties and personal aspirations.
While Hisahito steps into this pivotal role, the future of the monarchy hangs in the balance due to the male-only succession laws that have been in place for over a century. Currently, Hisahito’s father, Crown Prince Akishino, is the only male successor younger than Emperor Naruhito, whose reign is further complicated by the fact that he has a daughter, Princess Aiko, who cannot inherit the throne.
Japan has a rich history of male emperors, but there have also been female rulers in the past. The legal framework limiting succession to males was solidified in the post-World War II era, sparking ongoing debates about its relevance in modern society.
In 2005, discussions emerged proposing changes to allow female emperors, but with Hisahito’s birth, those talks quieted down, indicating a strong push from nationalists to maintain traditional norms. Recently, some conservative experts have suggested ways to uphold the male-only line while allowing female royals to retain their titles and duties after marriage.
The challenges are multifaceted, with concerns about the future of the Imperial family, especially as Japan faces demographic changes, including a declining birth rate and an aging population. Many speculate on whether the current laws should be revised to ensure the monarchy’s longevity.
During the coming-of-age ceremony on Saturday, Prince Hisahito donned traditional attire, received a crown symbolizing his new status, and participated in rituals that included thanking his parents and the Emperor. His day concluded with visits to important shrines and meetings with dignitaries, reinforcing his growing responsibilities.
As Japan navigates this complex landscape, all eyes are on Hisahito, who now represents both the hopes and challenges facing the ancient monarchy.
