The Strongest Pair Taking on More Duties, Including Diplomatic Meetings and Duck Releases

The background behind the increase in official duties for the strongest pair

Under the watchful eyes of ambassadors from 12 countries, including Canada and Switzerland, Princess Kako (30) and Princess Aiko (23) smiled at each other as they gently held ducks in both hands. When they crouched near the pond and released them, the ducks soared into the blue sky, powerfully flapping their wings.

The duck hunt event for the ambassadors to Japan took place on February 14 at Shinhama Duck Hunting Grounds in Ichikawa, Chiba Prefecture. This was Princess Kako’s second time attending and Princess Aiko’s first.

A reporter from the Imperial Household press division of a national newspaper shared, “Before receiving the duck from the staff, Princess Aiko had a look that seemed to ask, ‘What should I do?’ Princess Kako immediately stepped in to assist her. It was a heartwarming scene, showing how Princess Aiko relies on her older sister, who is seven years her senior.”

Their pair duty was last seen at a tea party held at the Imperial Palace in November of last year. Since Princess Aiko graduated from university in March last year, the two have increasingly attended events together.

Noriko Tsuge, a part-time lecturer at Seibu Bunri University and a contributor to “Koshitsu no Mado” (TV Tokyo), explains the background behind the increase in official duties for this strongest pair.

“It’s certain that Princess Kako is considering leaving the Imperial Family after getting married in the not-too-distant future. By participating in as many official duties together as possible now, she likely hopes to offer advice so that Princess Aiko won’t struggle after her departure from royal duties.”

The two have long been said to have a sister-like relationship. How many more times will we be able to see the strongest pair in official duties together?

From the March 7, 2025 issue of “FRIDAY”