"Hisahito, 19, is second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne, named after the flower that serves as the seal of the Imperial House, and is likely to become emperor one day. "Thank you very much for bestowing the crown today at the coming-of-age ceremony," Hisahito said. "I will fulfil my duties, being aware of my responsibilities as an adult member of the imperial family." Due to a desire to concentrate on his college entrance exams, Hisahito's coming-of-age rituals come a year after he turned 18, when he reached legal adulthood."
"Tradition dictates only a man can carry on the imperial line, according to a legend dating back 2,600 years. Akishino, Emperor Naruhito's younger brother, was the last male to reach adulthood in the family in 1985 with Hisahito the youngest of the 16-member all-adult Imperial Family. The pair are the only two male heirs who are younger than Naruhito and the shortage of male successors reflecting Japanese society's rapidly aging and shrinking population."
"Emperor Naruhito has a daughter, Princess Aiko, but the 23-year-old has been sidelined by the royal family's current succession rules."
Prince Hisahito, aged 19, received a traditional black silk and lacquer crown at his coming-of-age ceremony, marking the start of his royal adult life. He is second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne and is likely to become emperor in the future. His coming-of-age rituals were delayed by a year so he could focus on college entrance exams. Japan's male-only succession tradition, rooted in a 2,600-year legend, and the small number of male heirs have renewed scrutiny of succession rules. Princess Aiko remains excluded under current succession regulations.
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