A Simple Japanese Royal Family Tree

Step into the world of Japan's imperial family, where ancient tradition meets modern drama! This is no ordinary family tree—think emperors, princesses, and a sprinkle of controversy under the cherry blossoms.

From Emperor Shōwa’s epic reign to Princess Mako’s bold exit for love, the chrysanthemum throne weaves a tale of duty, sacrifice, and whispers of change.

With only a handful of male heirs left, the future hangs in the balance. Ready to unravel the saga of Naruhito, Aiko, Hisahito, and more? Let’s dive into this royal rollercoaster!

Japanese Royal Family Tree

The Japanese imperial family, one of the oldest hereditary monarchies in the world, operates under a system of male-preference primogeniture, where male heirs take precedence in succession.

Below is a description of the family tree focusing on the specified individuals, starting from Emperor Shōwa and tracing the lineage through to the current generation. The structure reflects familial relationships and roles within the imperial household as of April 17, 2025.

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Emperor Shōwa and Empress Kōjun

Emperor Shōwa (Hirohito, 1901–1989, reigned 1926–1989): The 124th Emperor of Japan, who oversaw Japan's transition through World War II and the post-war era. He is the grandfather of the current emperor.
Empress Kōjun (Nagako, 1903–2000): Consort of Emperor Shōwa, mother of Emperor Akihito, and grandmother of Emperor Naruhito and Crown Prince Fumihito. She played a significant role in maintaining imperial traditions.

Their children:

Akihito (Emperor Emeritus, born 1933), who married Michiko Shōda (Empress Emerita, born 1934).
Masahito, Prince Hitachi (born 1935), married to Hanako, Princess Hitachi (born 1940).

Prince Hitachi and Princess Hitachi

Masahito, Prince Hitachi (born 1935): Younger brother of Emperor Emeritus Akihito and son of Emperor Shōwa and Empress Kōjun. He is sixth in the line of succession and has no children.
Hanako, Princess Hitachi (born 1940): Wife of Prince Hitachi, known for her involvement in cultural and charitable activities. The couple has no heirs, so their line does not extend further.

Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko

Akihito (born 1933, reigned 1989–2019): The 125th Emperor, who abdicated in 2019 due to health concerns, the first emperor to do so in over 200 years. He is the son of Emperor Shōwa and Empress Kōjun.
Empress Emerita Michiko (born 1934): The first commoner to marry into the imperial family, known for her modernizing influence and public engagement. She is the mother of Emperor Naruhito and Crown Prince Fumihito.

Their children:

Naruhito (born 1960), the current emperor.
Fumihito (born 1965), Crown Prince Akishino.
Sayako, Princess Nori (born 1969), who left the imperial family upon marrying a commoner in 2005 and is not part of the succession.

Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako

Naruhito (born 1960, reigned 2019–present): The 126th and current Emperor of Japan, son of Akihito and Michiko. His reign, known as the Reiwa era, emphasizes peace and harmony.
Empress Masako (born 1963): A former diplomat who faced significant public scrutiny but has become active in international goodwill visits and mental health advocacy.

Their child

Princess Aiko, Princess Toshi (born 2001): The only child of Naruhito and Masako. Despite her status, she is ineligible to inherit the throne under current male-only succession laws. She is pursuing her education and public duties, but cannot continue the imperial line.

Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Kiko

Fumihito, Crown Prince Akishino (born 1965): Younger brother of Emperor Naruhito and first in line to the throne. He is the son of Akihito and Michiko and plays a prominent role in imperial duties.
Crown Princess Kiko (born 1966): Wife of Fumihito, known for her work in sign language advocacy and support for traditional Japanese culture.

Their children:

Mako Komuro (formerly Princess Mako, born 1991): The eldest daughter, who relinquished her imperial status in 2021 to marry Kei Komuro, a commoner. She now lives in the United States and is no longer part of the imperial family.
Princess Kako (born 1994): The second daughter, active in public duties, including cultural and youth-related events. She is not eligible for the throne and will lose her imperial status if she marries a commoner.
Prince Hisahito (born 2006): The only son and second in line to the throne. As the only male heir of his generation, he is critical to the continuation of the imperial line under current succession laws.

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