Japan’s Prince Hisahito Becomes First Male Royal 18 in 40 Years!

Japan's royal family has marked a significant milestone as Prince Hisahito has turned 18, becoming the first male royal to reach adulthood in nearly 40 years. This important event took place on September 8, 2024, and highlights the challenges facing the imperial family, which has ruled Japan for over a millennium. Hisahito is the nephew of Emperor Naruhito and the son of Crown Prince Akishino, who was the last male royal to reach adulthood back in 1985.

As the youngest member of the 17-member imperial family, Hisahito's coming of age is particularly noteworthy given the declining number of males in the royal lineage. Currently, there are only four men in the family, raising concerns about the future of the monarchy. The existing laws, which only allow males to ascend to the throne, have sparked discussions about the need for reform, especially as the family faces a shrinking population.

During his statement on this milestone, Hisahito expressed his desire to cherish his remaining time in high school and to learn from various experiences. He has shown a keen interest in nature, particularly insects, and has even co-authored a paper on dragonflies. Hisahito's aspirations and interests reflect a modern perspective within the traditional framework of the imperial family.

The Japanese government is currently debating potential changes to the succession laws, which have remained largely unchanged since the 1947 Imperial House Law. This law mandates that female royals lose their titles upon marrying commoners, creating a narrow path for succession. As the royal family navigates these challenges, Hisahito's entry into adulthood symbolizes both continuity and the pressing need for adaptation within Japan's historical monarchy.