Princess Kako Shines in White — A Step Toward Reconciliation With the Akishino Family
While they continue to live separately at the former temporary residence, Kako and her son are smiling as they perform their official duties together.
Official duties and intentions
Dressed in an elegant jacket and skirt, Princess Kako (31) admired the colorful flowers, including roses and carnations. On January 30, she visited the “74th Kanto-Tokai Flower Exhibition” in Toshima Ward, Tokyo, alongside Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko.
“This is the fourth time Princess Kako has attended this exhibition with the couple. She carefully viewed over 1,500 flowers at the venue. The outfit she wore that day appears to be a set from ‘ROPE,’ with the jacket priced at 35,200 yen including tax and the skirt at 25,300 yen,” said a reporter covering the Imperial Household Agency for a national newspaper.
In January alone, Princess Kako attended 14 official duties. Behind this is said to be her intention to repair her relationship with Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko, amid rumors of discord. Yuji Odabe, emeritus professor at Shizuoka Welfare University, commented:
“Princess Kako continues to live alone in the former temporary residence and remains separated from her family. However, she likely feels it would be undesirable for the public to perceive a rift with her family. Her appearances at official duties with the three of them suggest she is making efforts to reach out to Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko.”
Princess Kako’s actions may have another motive.
“She has long said she would like to marry after turning 30. To ensure her marriage proceeds smoothly, she likely wants to maintain good relations with the couple,” he added.
Her efforts to reach out to Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko may indicate that Princess Kako’s marriage is not far off.
From the February 20/27, 2026 issue of “FRIDAY”
PHOTO： JMPA