Princess Kako graduated from the International Christian University, her elder sister’s alma mater, in Tokyo on Friday and used written answers to press questions to indicate not only what she looked forward to, but some would say a very modern approach to marriage for Japan but one that has born success recently in the United Kingdom.
When asked about the possible postponement of her sister’s wedding to Kai Komuro as the family may have been involved in a financial dispute, she replied: “I would like my sister’s wishes to be met, as I believe the important detail is how they feel about other”. This position was further emphasised when she was asked about her ideal partner, and she replied that it would be someone she could be relaxed with.
She is the granddaughter of Emperor Akihito and Empress Michiko, being the daughter of Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko. Her questions were not only on future marriage plans but plans in general. The Princess indicated she had decided not to take her studies further but to devote her time now to official duties and to be supportive of her uncle, Crown Prince Naruhito when he takes the Chrysanthemum Throne on the 1st May.
As she said she has dreams but for the moment will keep them to herself. The ascension of Crown Prince Naruhito brings her family into the spotlight as he has two older daughters and only one son. At the moment even Japan being ruled by solely by an Empress is something they will not consider.
When her uncle becomes Emperor, her father the 58-year-old Prince Akishino will become Crown Prince, and her 12-year-old brother, Prince Hisahito will be second in line. The Princess was firm in her responses that she was keen to be supportive in the official roles she now takes on, and that performing them is the most important thing in her life. She studied psychology while at university, and those studies included a year at Leeds University from September 2017. The experience of living away from her home in China will give her the confidence she needs to take the official duties in her stride.
