Image Credit: Yahoo!
On September 6, Prince Hisahito, the eldest son of Prince Akishino Fumihito and a prominent member of the Japanese royal family, marked a significant milestone by turning 18 and officially coming of age. This event holds special importance as it is the first time in 39 years that the Japanese royal family has seen a male heir to the throne reach adulthood since Prince Akishino Fumihito.
According to the Japan Broadcasting Association (NHK), Prince Hisahito now stands as the second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne, following his father. Currently a third-year student at a high school affiliated with the University of Tsukuba, Hisahito made a notable appearance at the Imperial Palace after school to celebrate his birthday with the royal family. At around 5 p.m., he visited Emperor Naruhito, Queen Masako, and Princess Aiko to extend his birthday greetings.
The occasion also marked a historic change as Hisahito is the first member of the royal family to come of age since Japan’s Civil Code was revised to lower the age of majority to 18. During his visit, the prince was seen rolling down his car window and waving to well-wishers who congratulated him as he passed through the palace gate.
Later in the day, Prince Hisahito made another notable visit to the Sento Imperial Palace in Akasaka to greet Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko. This dual visit highlighted the royal family’s adherence to traditional customs while also embracing modern milestones.
This significant event not only celebrates Prince Hisahito’s transition into adulthood but also symbolizes a continuation of the Japanese imperial lineage amid evolving societal norms.