Archive · 6 Sep 2025
Prince Hisahito's Adulthood Fuels Succession Debate in Japan
Prince Hisahito, who is 19, has become an adult and is in line to be the next emperor of Japan after his father.
This is a big deal because he is one of the only young male heirs, which means there aren't many other males who can take over the throne after him.
Japan's laws say only men can be emperors.
Some people are discussing whether the rules should change so that a woman could also become an empress to make sure there will always be a ruler.
Prince Hisahito studies biology and is interested in insects like dragonflies.
Prince Hisahito's coming-of-age ceremonies marked his adulthood and second in line to the throne.
The lack of male heirs after Prince Hisahito raises questions about the future of Japan's monarchy.
Hisahito studies biology at Tsukuba University, with a focus on insects.
Discussions are ongoing about possibly altering succession laws to allow female emperors.
Ceremonies included traditional rituals at the Imperial Palace and visits to sacred sites.
- Who
- Prince Hisahito of Akishino
- What
- Reached adulthood and is now second in line for the throne, sparking discussions on the monarchy's future.
- When
- September 6, 2025, marked by a coming-of-age ceremony.
- Where
- Japan
- Why
- His adulthood and lack of male successors raise concerns about the continuity of the imperial line and the potential need for reforms.
Supporters of Female Succession
Supporters of Male Succession
Succession Laws
Supporters of Female Succession
Favor changing the law to permit female succession to secure the monarchy's survival.
Supporters of Male Succession
Support maintaining the current male-only succession rules.
- Prince's Name
- Hisahito of Akishino
- Age
- 19
- Succession Status
- Second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne
- Education
- Studying biology at Tsukuba University
- Father
- Crown Prince Fumihito
- Coming-of-Age Ceremony
- September 6, 2025
Sources
Japan's Prince Hisahito is First Male Royal to Rreach Adulthood in 4 Decades
Who is Prince Hisahito? First male in world’s oldest monarchy reaches adulthood in 40 years
Japan’s monarchy at crossroads: Could Prince Hisahito be the last emperor?
