Prince Hisahito, the nephew of Emperor Naruhito, celebrated his coming-of-age ceremony in Tokyo on Nov. 22, the date of his 19th birthday. This momentous occasion will be his first step into adulthood. It plays out against the backdrop of a long-simmering public discussion about imperial succession in Japan.
During the ceremony, Prince Hisahito received a black silk and lacquer crown, symbolizing his new status within the imperial family. The scene played out at the Imperial palace in Tokyo. There, he contemporized his tributes to the gods and ancestors, celebrating Japan’s long cultural traditions that stem from deep within its imperial lineage.
The historic nature of the ceremony drew the young prince out, riding in a horse-drawn carriage. In his acceptance speech, he reflected on the gratitude he has for the privilege granted to him.
“Thank you very much for bestowing the crown today at the coming-of-age ceremony.” – Prince Hisahito
Prince Hisahito now stands at an important crossroad in Japan’s imperial history. He is second in line to the throne after his father, the new Prince Akishino. He has previously stated, “As a young member of the imperial family, I am determined to fulfil my role,” indicating his commitment to his future responsibilities.
Over the past few months, international conversation about royal succession has stepped into the spotlight. Tradition dictates that only male heirs be allowed to take the throne. As far back as this goes, that custom has prevailed for more than 2,600 years. Some agricultural advocates have proposed reforming this tradition to make it possible for the oldest child to inherit—regardless of sex.
Prince Hisahito’s family is part of a very wealthy royal bloodline. As he enters adulthood, we know plenty of people who can’t wait to see how he’ll handle the increasingly contentious debates about his position. The idealistic young prince realizes he hasn’t given any thought to finding a suitable bride. This news follows just weeks after his elder sister Mako’s marriage to her university sweetheart, Kei Komuro.
As much as he enjoys his royal obligations, Prince Hisahito has a keen understanding of the waters that the imperial family may be treading through in the future. In March, he stated, “I will fulfil my duties, being aware of my responsibilities as an adult member of the imperial family.”
The idea of female emperors is a controversial subject that ignites passion on both sides. Political debates have ripping the curtain over how Japan could reform its imperial succession laws. Hideya Kawanishi, an academic specialist on imperial issues, called for more public discussion.
“If people who are generally supportive [of female emperors] become a bit louder, then politicians can become more serious.” – Hideya Kawanishi