Japan Pushes for Princess Aiko as Future Monarch

Princess Aiko, born December 1, 2001, is the only daughter of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako.

Widely admired for her warmth and intelligence, she’s gaining strong public support as a potential future monarch.

Japan’s male-only succession rules prevent her from inheriting the throne or retaining status if she marries a commoner.

Supporters see her succession as a step toward modernizing the monarchy and improving women’s status.

Since graduating in 2024, she has taken on more official duties, including her first solo overseas trip.

With only one younger male heir remaining, succession reform is increasingly urgent.

Many view her as the key to preserving and modernizing the monarchy as public campaigns push for legal change.