Empress Masako of Japan was unable to attend birthday celebrations for her daughter, Princess Aiko, due to her health.
Princess Aiko turned 21 on 1 December and marked the day by visiting her grandparents, Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko. She also greeted staff at the Imperial Palace on her special day.
The only child of the Emperor and Empress received congratulations from staff who included the Chief of the Imperial Household Agency, the Deputy Chief, the Chief Chamberlain and the Chamberlain staff. Emperor Naruhito was there to wish his daughter a happy birthday, as well, but Empress Masako could not attend due to health reasons.
All that has been reported in Japanese media is that the Empress was in poor health on the day.
Empress Masako has struggled with health issues for years, and as a result, during her time as Crown Princess of Japan, she spent many years out of the limelight. The Empress has dealt with stress-induced mental health issues for years; she developed an adjustment disorder after the birth of Princess Aiko and the stress of trying to produce a male heir.
Around the time of Emperor Naruhito’s enthronement in 2019 and her 56th birthday that year, her doctors said her condition had improved. However, they added: “But she has not fully recovered, and her conditions have ups and downs. She gets tired after a major event or after a series of events.
“Having over-expectations could go counter to her recovery.”
They stressed the importance of her continuing treatment with the support of those around her.
Empress Masako appears at events in Japan but has prioritised her health. Princess Aiko is said to be a strong emotional support to her mother.
