Archive · 3 Dec 2025
Princess Aiko's Popularity Fuels Debate on Japan's Male-Only Succession Law
Princess Aiko, the only child of Emperor Naruhito, is very popular in Japan.
Many people want her to become the next emperor, but Japan's laws say only men can be emperors.
This law has been in place since 1889, but before that, there were female emperors.
Now, there are very few male heirs left in the royal family, which is causing worry.
Some people think the law should be changed to allow Aiko to be emperor, but others, including some lawmakers, disagree.
The United Nations has also said Japan should allow a female emperor to promote gender equality.
The debate continues as people discuss how to save the monarchy.
Princess Aiko's popularity has sparked calls to change Japan's male-only succession law.
Japan's monarchy is shrinking, with only 16 members and few male heirs.
Conservative lawmakers, including Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, oppose changing the law.
The United Nations women's rights committee has urged Japan to allow a female emperor.
Experts warn that the monarchy could die out if the succession law is not changed.
- Who
- Princess Aiko, Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, Crown Prince Akishino, Prince Hisahito, Japanese public, conservative lawmakers
- What
- Debate on changing Japan's male-only succession law to allow Princess Aiko to become emperor
- When
- As Princess Aiko turns 24 on December 1, 2024
- Where
- Japan, specifically Nagasaki and Tokyo
- Why
- To prevent the extinction of Japan's monarchy and address gender equality concerns
- Princess Aiko's Age
- 24 years old
- Current Emperor
- Naruhito
- Potential Male Heirs
- Crown Prince Akishino and Prince Hisahito
- Number of Imperial Family Members
- 16
- Last Female Emperor
- Gosakuramachi (1762-1770)
- Year Male-Only Succession Law Enacted
- 1889
- UN Women's Rights Committee Stance
- Urged Japan to allow female emperor
- Conservative Proposal
- Adopt male descendants from defunct royal branches