The Japanese Imperial Family has strict rules regarding marriage. A Japanese princess can only marry a commoner if she renounces her royal title and status. This is due to the Imperial House Law, which states that only male heirs can inherit the throne.
Marriage Rules for Japanese Princesses:
- Male Heir: Only male members of the Imperial Family can inherit the throne.
- Commoner Marriage: A princess can marry a commoner, but she must renounce her royal title and status.
- Royal Marriage: A princess can marry a member of the Japanese Imperial Family or another royal family.
- No Foreign Royal Marriages: The Japanese Imperial Family does not allow marriages with foreign royals unless the individual is a member of a sovereign royal family.
Examples:
- Princess Mako: In 2021, Princess Mako married Kei Komuro, a commoner. She renounced her royal title and status to marry him.
- Princess Aiko: Princess Aiko, the only child of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, is currently in line to inherit the throne. She would be the first female monarch since Empress Go-Sakuramachi in the 18th century.
- Prince Hisahito: Prince Hisahito, the only male heir in the current generation, is currently second in line to the throne.
Conclusion:
The marriage rules for Japanese princesses are complex and designed to ensure the continuation of the Imperial Family. While princesses can marry commoners, they must renounce their royal status. The Japanese Imperial Family is working to address the issue of female succession, but it is a complex issue with many cultural and historical considerations.
