InsideJapan News Network

Japan’s Prince Akishino has called for the imperial retirement age to be reconsidered in the wake of his father’s ill health.

During a news conference to mark his 46th birthday, the Prince suggested the Imperial Household should be more flexible about Emperor Akihito’s workload as he is 77-years-old.

He said: "When you pass a certain age, it gradually becomes difficult for people to do various things."

Although the Emperor’s role is entirely ceremonial, he is highly-regarded by his people and the country remains strict that the line of succession remains male.

This means Prince Naruhito’s ten-year-old daughter, Princess Aiko, will not have the opportunity to take the throne, though her five-year-old cousin Prince Hisahito might.

Currently Akishino’s elder brother Naruhito is next in line to the throne.

Last week, the Emperor was released from hospital following an 18-day stay related to mild bronchial pneumonia.

He previously suffered threats to his health in 2003, when he underwent surgery for prostate cancer.

Posted by Mark Smith  


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