EXPLAINED: Hisahito - The Real Truth

Prince Hisahito turns 20 as Japan's government reinforces male-only succession rules

Japan’s Prince Hisahito has turned 20 while facing growing attention as a future monarch

The Independent UK · Sep 6

Japan's Imperial Succession Crisis Deepens as Ancient Male-Only Rules Leave Royal Future Uncertain

Japan's imperial family faces a succession dilemma as debates intensify over reforming male-only inheritance laws. Public support for change grows, challenging traditionalists and shaping the monarchy's future.

International Business Times UK · Jul 17

Japan relaxes royal succession law but women still can’t become emperors

New measures will also allow princesses to keep their royal status if they marry a commoner

The Independent UK · Jul 17

Japan's Royal Family Is Running Out of Heirs, But Women Are Still Barred From Becoming Emperor

Japan's royal succession crisis deepens as a scholar calls the ban on female emperors 'plainly misogyny' while the imperial family is left with just three eligible heirs.

International Business Times UK · Jul 15

Japan’s Prince Hisahito makes imperial state banquet debut after sister relinquishes royal duties

Prince Hisahito of Japan has made his imperial state banquet debut, five years after his sister relinquished her royal duties.

The Independent UK · May 29

Who Is Prince Hisahito? Royal Son Is Now Sole Hope as Japan's Monarchy Faces Historic Extinction

Prince Hisahito, Japan's 19-year-old royal, is the sole male heir and may be the last emperor under male-only succession rules.

International Business Times UK · Jan 22

Japan's imperial family celebrates new year with traditional palace appearance

Thousands gathered at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo as Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako greeted them for the new year. Emperor's nephew Hisahito joined the event for the first time.

Euronews · Jan 2

Princess Aiko's popularity sparks calls to change Japan's male-only succession law

Princess Aiko's increasing popularity is sparking discussions about changing Japan's male-only succession law

The Independent UK · Dec 1, 2025

Lavish ritual highlights dilemma for Japan’s royal family

IN FULL

The Independent UK · Sep 6, 2025

Prince Hisahito: Japan holds lavish celebrations for first male royal to reach adulthood in 40 years

The prince is the youngest of the 16-member imperial family, which now features no children

The Independent UK · Sep 6, 2025