Tokyo, Japan – Prince Hisahito, the only grandson of Emperor Emeritus Akihito and the nephew of Emperor Naruhito, celebrated his coming-of-age ceremony at the Imperial Palace on Saturday, September 6, 2025.
At 19 years old, Hisahito is the first male member of Japan’s imperial family to reach adulthood in 40 years. He is now officially recognised as second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne, after his father, Crown Prince Akishino.
During the ceremony, Hisahito wore a beige robe and later received a black silk and lacquer “kanmuri” crown, symbolising his transition into adulthood. Bowing deeply, he thanked Emperor Naruhito, his parents, and pledged to fulfil his royal duties responsibly.
After the ritual, he changed into traditional black attire and rode in a horse-drawn carriage to pray at three sacred palace shrines. Later, he met with Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako in the Pine Room of the palace.
His ceremonial duties will continue with visits to Ise Shrine, Emperor Jinmu’s mausoleum in Nara, and the tomb of Emperor Hirohito.
Hisahito’s milestone highlights Japan’s succession crisis. Despite Emperor Naruhito having a daughter, Princess Aiko, current laws only allow male heirs to ascend the throne. With just two younger male heirs – Hisahito and his father – the future of the 2,600-year-old monarchy is uncertain.
The male-only rule was introduced in 1889 and reinforced by the 1947 Imperial House Law, reflecting conservative traditions. Yet, surveys show that most Japanese people support allowing women, such as Princess Aiko, to become empress.
Historians note that Japan once had eight reigning empresses, though none produced heirs. The last female monarch, Empress Gosakuramachi, reigned in the 18th century.
Who is Prince Hisahito?
Born on September 6, 2006 to Crown Prince Akishino and Crown Princess Kiko.
Only male among three siblings, with sisters Princess Kako and former Princess Mako (who left the family after marrying a commoner).
A freshman at Tsukuba University, studying biology.
Known for his love of dragonflies, having co-authored a research paper on insects around his Tokyo estate.
Enjoys playing badminton in his free time.
Prince Hisahito’s new responsibilities include representing the imperial family at ceremonies and state functions. He will also host a formal lunch with Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and government leaders this week.
While his coming-of-age is a moment of celebration, it also underscores the urgent debate about the future of the Japanese monarchy. Without legal reforms, Hisahito may be the last young male heir in the world’s oldest continuous dynasty.
