Kaylah Walton
On Friday, November 15, 2024, Japan experienced a deeply mournful event, marking a significant moment in its history. The passing of Princess Yuriko, who had been the longest-serving member of the imperial family, was reported by the Imperial Household Agency. The reasons behind her death have not been disclosed by the agency.
In the weeks leading up to her death, Japanese media highlighted the health challenges faced by Princess Yuriko due to her advanced age. She lived to be 101 years old, having been born in 1923. She married Prince Mikasa, the younger sibling of Emperor Hirohito, in 1941, and played an influential role in Japan’s public life throughout her years.
Princess Yuriko’s Influence within Society and the Imperial Family
Throughout her life, Princess Yuriko was involved in numerous charitable and cultural initiatives, holding honorary positions such as with the Japanese Red Cross Society. She also served as the president of the Cultural Foundation for Promoting Japan’s National Costume. Following the death of her husband Mikasa in 2016, she remained an important symbol of the imperial family.
The situation regarding succession in Japan has become a topic of discussion since there are only three qualified members: Crown Prince Akishino, aged 58; his son, Prince Hisahito, who is 18; and Prince Hitachi, 88, who is the brother of Emeritus Emperor Akihito, now 90 years old. The current emperor, Nahurito, is 64.
Women have always played a pivotal role in the Japanese imperial family. Princess Yuriko was a noteworthy member among the 11 women in the family today. With her passing, the total number of imperial family members stands at 16.
