Sun Sep 08 13:10:19 UTC 2024: ## Prince Hisahito of Japan Comes of Age, Marking a New Era for the Imperial Family
**Tokyo, Japan -** Prince Hisahito, nephew of Emperor Naruhito and second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne, has reached adulthood at the age of 18. This marks a significant milestone, as he is the first male member of the Japanese imperial family to reach adulthood in nearly four decades.
Prince Hisahito, the only son of Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Kiko, expressed his eagerness to embrace the opportunities that lie ahead. “I hope to learn more through each and every experience, absorbing various aspects and growing through them,” he said in a statement released by the Imperial Household Agency.
His coming-of-age ceremony and accompanying press conference will be held in spring 2025 or later, following his high school graduation. This decision was made to ensure his studies are not affected by the ceremonial events.
It is noteworthy that Prince Hisahito is also the first imperial family member to reach adulthood under Japan’s revised Civil Code. The code, which came into effect in April 2022, lowered the age of adulthood from 20 to 18.
This coming-of-age signifies a new chapter for the Japanese Imperial Family, with Prince Hisahito stepping into a more prominent role as he prepares for his future responsibilities.
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