Now, Prince Hisahito reaches adulthood in an official sense.
In a significant development for the Japanese Imperial Household, Prince Hisahito, the second in line to the throne, was officially recognized as an adult on his 19th birthday. The ceremony, a rarity in nearly 40 years, took place a year later due to organizational reasons.
The ceremony was a family affair, attended by Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, Prince Hisahito's parents, and his two sisters. The event was also graced by Akishino, the brother of Emperor Naruhit, who himself had undergone a similar ceremony.
Footage of the ceremony was broadcast by Japanese broadcaster NHK, showing Prince Hisahito receiving a crown from Emperor Naruhito and having it placed on his head by a court official. After receiving the crown, Prince Hisahito expressed his gratitude to the Emperor, Empress, and his parents.
The recognition of Prince Hisahito as an adult brings the succession issue back into the spotlight. The current Imperial Household Law prohibits women from ascending the throne, which could potentially lead to the Imperial Household ceasing to exist if Prince Hisahito does not have male offspring in the future.
This issue could be resolved if the Imperial Household Law were changed to allow the eldest child, regardless of gender, to succeed to the throne. A proposal to this effect was made by the government advisory panel on imperial traditions during discussions in the early 2000s under Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi's administration.
However, the question of whether the Imperial Household Law will be changed remains uncertain. Imperial expert Ernst Lokowandt has stated that the Imperial Household could cease to exist if the succession issue is not resolved.
Prince Hisahito, currently the only male member of the Japanese Imperial Family who can succeed to the throne, is poised to play a significant role in the future of the Imperial Household. As he navigates his path as an adult, the focus remains on the succession issue and the potential changes that could shape the future of the Imperial Household.
