Princess Kako’s 30th Birthday and Reworked Marriage Plans After Princess Yuriko’s Passing

“May her soul rest in peace.”

On November 15, Princess Yuriko of Mikasa, the oldest member of the imperial family, passed away at the age of 101 due to old age, and the Akishino family mourned her loss.

“The connection between the Akishino family and the Mikasa couple (Prince Takahito of Mikasa, who passed away at the age of 100 in 2016) was deeper than that of other imperial families. Princess Yuriko had served as the president of the ‘Mother and Child Welfare Society’ for over 60 years, a role now taken over by Princess Kiko. Furthermore, Prince Takahito was the godparent of the Akishino family’s children—Princess Mako, Princess Kako, and Prince Hisahito. The Akishino family is deeply saddened by the loss, as revealed through the Imperial Household Agency” (National newspaper reporter).

Having lived through four eras—Taisho, Showa, Heisei, and Reiwa—and endured a tumultuous period in history, Princess Yuriko’s funeral, the “Rensō no Gi” (a ceremonial funeral), was held on November 26 at the Toshimagaoka Cemetery in Bunkyo Ward, Tokyo.

 

It’s time to take a break.

 

On the other hand, with the passing of Princess Yuriko,

“A break in the competition for coverage of Princess Kako’s marriage seems to be taking place,”

says a female magazine reporter who covers the imperial family.

“In recent years, Princess Kako’s busy schedule has led to speculation that it might be due to her potential departure from the imperial family after marriage. Therefore, it was often whispered among reporters covering the imperial family that there might be some announcement related to her marriage before she turns 30 in December, a significant milestone. This is similar to what happened with Princess Mako, who also had a strong attachment to the age of 30.”

When a royal family member passes away, as a custom, other members of the imperial family observe a mourning period for a certain time. The Akishino family’s mourning period lasts for five days.

“However, even though the five-day mourning period is observed, if an announcement regarding a confirmed marriage is made about a month after Princess Yuriko’s passing, considering the current public sentiment towards the Akishino family, it’s easy to foresee criticism from the public. If an announcement about her engagement were to be made, it is naturally assumed that it would be difficult to do so within the year,” (the same female magazine reporter) explains.

In women’s magazines and similar outlets, Princess Kako’s marriage is one of the biggest topics of interest. There have been many reports of her reportedly dating a commoner in secret, and some even suggest that her mother, Princess Kiko, is opposed to Princess Kako’s current relationship.

 

Prince Hisahito’s Coming-of-Age Ceremony will be held in April or May next year.

“Princess Kako is reportedly feeling that she doesn’t want to delay things any further. The hurdles for royal marriages are already high, and she understands this painfully well after the situation with Kei Komuro. Finding a new partner now would not be realistic. It is likely that she will go ahead with the marriage despite her mother, Princess Kiko’s opposition” (Imperial Household Agency official).

So, when could an announcement about her marriage be made?

“If an announcement about the marriage is to be made, it would likely happen early next year, around March. Of course, coordination with relevant parties will be necessary” (previous female magazine reporter).

This timing might be chosen with the return of her close sister, Princess Mako, in mind.

“Prince Hisahito, who turned 18 this year, is expected to hold his coming-of-age ceremony sometime between April and May next year. Princess Mako, his older sister, will likely be invited to this event. If the wedding were held around that time, Princess Mako could attend the ceremony.

For Princess Kako, having Princess Mako attend her wedding would be a dream come true. Since there are many royal events related to marriage, it’s logical to assume that the engagement announcement would happen by March, before all events are completed and Princess Mako returns to Japan” (same female magazine reporter).

After next spring, it seems the Akishino family will be busy again.