Prince Hisahito turns 20 while cousin Aiko is blocked from succession

Hisahito is second in line to Japan's throne. At 20, he is a biology student. His cousin Princess Aiko is more popular and most Japanese want her to succeed, but Japan's law only allows men to be emperor.

Why it mattersJapan's rules about who can rule are shaped by tradition and limit women. The pressure on Hisahito and his future wife shows why many Japanese see these rules as outdated and unfair.

AustraliaJapan is a major regional ally and trade partner. The succession debate illustrates how developed democracies grapple with gender equality versus tradition.

✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 4 d ago