Japan's Prince Hisahito Takes Part in Coming-of-Age Ceremony Amid Succession Debate
TOKYO - Japan's second-in-line to the emperor's throne, Prince Hisahito, marked his coming of age with an elaborate ceremony at the Imperial Palace on Saturday, amidst a growing debate over the country's male-only succession rules.
At the ceremony, attended by Emperor Naruhito and other members of the royal family, Hisahito received a black silk and lacquer crown, symbolizing his transition to adulthood. The 13-year-old prince thanked the emperor for bestowing the crown and vowed to fulfill his duties as an adult member of the imperial family.
"I will endeavour to carry out my responsibilities with awareness of my position as an adult member of the imperial family," Hisahito said in a statement released after the ceremony.
The coming-of-age ceremony, known as "Seijin no Hi" in Japanese, is a significant milestone in a person's life in Japan. However, it has been overshadowed by controversy surrounding the country's succession laws, which bar women from ascending to the throne.
As the nephew of Emperor Naruhito and the son of Prince Fumihito, Hisahito is next in line to the throne after his father. However, his aunt, Princess Aiko, who is 23 years old, has been sidelined by the male-only succession rules.
The issue has sparked debate among Japanese citizens and experts, with some arguing that the country's laws should be reformed to allow women to inherit the throne. Others have defended the traditional system, citing cultural and historical significance.
"This ceremony highlights the complexities of Japan's monarchy," said Dr. Yumi Ishikawa, a historian at Tokyo University. "While Prince Hisahito's coming of age is a significant event, it also raises questions about the future of the imperial family and its succession rules."
The debate over Japan's succession laws has been ongoing for several years, with some calling for reform to make the monarchy more inclusive. However, any changes would require approval from both the government and the Imperial House Law.
As Prince Hisahito begins his adult life as a member of the royal family, the spotlight will remain on him and the country's succession rules. The next development is expected to come in 2023, when Princess Aiko turns 25 and becomes eligible for marriage under Japanese law.
In the meantime, Prince Hisahito will continue to carry out his duties as a young member of the imperial family, while the debate over Japan's succession laws continues to unfold.
*Reporting by Theguardian.*
