Princess Aiko, the only child of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, celebrated her 23rd birthday on Sunday as she continues to take on more official duties. However, her future in Japan's imperial family remains uncertain due to the country's male-only succession law. Aiko marked her birthday at the imperial palace in Tokyo with her parents. The Imperial Household Agency (IHA) released photos of the princess, including one of her standing by a persimmon tree in a palace garden and another holding handcrafted washi paper made during her first solo official trip in October. Since graduating from university earlier this year, Aiko has been participating in palace rituals and official engagements while working at the Japanese Red Cross Society, where she is involved in volunteer training programs. Under the 1947 Imperial House Law, female members of the imperial family must renounce their royal status if they marry outside the family. This law, rooted in conservative prewar values, also restricts the throne to male heirs, putting the 2,000-year-old monarchy at risk. Japan's imperial family has only 16 members, with just four men, raising concerns about the stability of the succession. The youngest male member, Aiko's cousin Prince Hisahito, 18, is currently the last heir apparent. While public opinion strongly supports allowing female emperors and preserving Aiko's royal status, conservatives in the ruling party remain opposed. Alternatives under consideration include adopting male heirs from former noble families that lost their status after World War II. Crown Prince Akishino, Aiko's uncle, addressed the succession issue during his own birthday remarks on Saturday. He emphasized that members of the imperial family are "living humans" and suggested that palace officials who manage their lives should understand the implications of the debate. Despite the uncertainty surrounding her future, Aiko maintains an active lifestyle. She enjoys walks with her parents and plays volleyball, tennis, and badminton with palace officials on weekends, according to the IHA. — Agencies
