Prince Hisahito Marks Historic Milestone as He Turns 18

Prince Hisahito of Japan, second-in-line to the throne, turns 18, becoming the first male royal to reach adulthood in nearly 40 years. He is eager to embrace new opportunities and will have his Coming-of-Age ceremony in spring 2025 or later, post high school graduation.

Prince Hisahito, nephew of Emperor Naruhito and second-in-line to Japan's Chrysanthemum Throne, celebrated a significant milestone by turning 18. This marks the first time in nearly four decades that a male member of Japan's imperial family has reached adulthood, following his father, Prince Akishino.

As the prince celebrated his milestone birthday on Friday, he expressed a keen desire to seize new opportunities and grow from his experiences. Through the Imperial Household Agency, he conveyed his gratitude to his supporters and family. 'I hope to learn more through each and every experience, absorbing various aspects and growing through them,' he said.

Born on September 6, 2006, Prince Hisahito is currently a senior at Otsuka, University of Tsukuba. The Imperial Household Agency announced that his Coming-of-Age ceremony and press conference will be scheduled for spring 2025 or later, ensuring his studies remain unaffected. Notably, he becomes the first imperial family member to reach adulthood under Japan's revised Civil Code, which lowered the age of adulthood to 18 from 20 in April 2022. Princess Aiko, the daughter of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, celebrated her coming of age at 20 in 2021.

(With inputs from agencies.)