Tokyo (AP) – Japanese princess Yuriko, the wartime wife of Emperor Hirohito’s brother and the oldest member of the imperial family, has died after her health deteriorated recently, palace officials said. He was 101 years old.
Yuriko died on Friday in a Tokyo hospital, the Imperial Family Agency said. The cause of death was not announced.
Biography of Princess Yuriko of Japan
Born in 1923 into nobility, Yuriko married Prince Mikasa, Hirohito’s younger brother and great-uncle to the current Emperor Naruhito, at the age of 18, months before the start of World War II.
She has said that she lived in a shelter with her husband and young daughter after her home was burnt down during the American bombing of Tokyo in the final months of the war, in 1945.
Yuriko raised five children and supported Mikasa’s research into the ancient history of the Near East, while fulfilling her official duties and participating in philanthropic activities, including promoting maternal and child health. She survived her husband and three children.
Japanese royal family
His death reduces Japan’s rapidly declining imperial family to 16 people, including four men, as the country grapples with the dilemma of how to sustain the royal family and conservatives in the ruling party argue for succession keep one male.
The Imperial Family Law of 1947, which largely preserves conservative pre-war family values, allows only men to ascend the throne and forces female members of the royal family who marry commoners to lose their royal status.
The youngest male member of the imperial family, Prince Hisahito – Emperor Naruhito’s nephew - is currently the final heir apparent, which poses a major problem for a system that does not allow empresses. The government is discussing how to keep succession stable without relying on women.
Reactions to Yuriko’s death
Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, visiting South America to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Forum and Group 20 summit, issued a statement expressing his “heartfelt condolences”.
Naruhito, Empress Masako, her daughter Aiko, and other family members visited Mikasa’s residence to mourn Yuriko’s death. The Palace announced that the general public who wish to express their condolences can sign a book starting on Saturday.
Yuriko lived a healthy life as a centenarian before suffering a stroke and pneumonia in March. He enjoyed working out in the morning while watching a daily fitness show on TV, the news agency said. Casa Imperial. He also continued to read various newspapers and magazines and enjoyed watching news and baseball on television. On sunny days, she sat in the palace garden or was carried in her wheelchair.
Yuriko was hospitalized after suffering a stroke and has been in and out of intensive care ever since. His general condition worsened during the past week, as reported by the Imperial Household agency.
Related
What impact did Princess Yuriko’s life have on modern views of the Japanese imperial family?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Imperial Family Expert
Editor: Good day, and welcome to Time.news. Today, we have the privilege of speaking with Dr. Haruki Saito, a renowned expert on the Japanese imperial family and societal shifts in Japan. Dr. Saito, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Saito: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to discuss such an important part of Japan’s history and culture.
Editor: We are here to reflect on the recent passing of Princess Yuriko, who lived an extraordinary life. She was not only the oldest member of the imperial family but also played a significant role during wartime. Can you share your thoughts on her legacy?
Dr. Saito: Princess Yuriko’s legacy is multifaceted. Her life encapsulates the tumultuous period that Japan experienced during and after World War II. Born into nobility and marrying into the imperial family just before the war, she endured hardships that shaped her character and her subsequent contributions. Living in a shelter after her home was burnt down during the American bombing is a poignant part of her story that exemplifies resilience.
Editor: It’s interesting how personal trials often lead to greater public service. Yuriko raised five children and was actively involved in philanthropic efforts. What do you think motivated her to pursue such publicly engaged work?
Dr. Saito: Princess Yuriko was a remarkable figure who understood the weight of her position. Her work promoting maternal and child health can be seen as both a personal mission and a public service. As a mother herself, she likely felt a deep empathy for other mothers and families. This interaction between her royal duties and personal experiences highlighted her commitment to serve society, particularly in a post-war Japan that urgently needed stability and support.
Editor: Given her passing, how does this affect the current dynamics within the imperial family, especially considering Japan’s challenges with succession?
Dr. Saito: Yuriko’s death is significant as it reduces the already dwindling number of imperial family members to just 16. This situation is amplifying the discussions around succession laws, which currently favor male heirs. With Princess Yuriko’s direct descendants limited now, the conversation about allowing female succession is becoming increasingly urgent, especially viewed against the backdrop of a rapidly modernizing society.
Editor: Yes, the Imperial Family Law of 1947 restricts succession to males, which creates a challenging dynamic. Do you believe this law will undergo changes in light of the current family structure?
Dr. Saito: Change is certainly on the horizon. The ongoing debates among politicians and the public suggest that many individuals are reconsidering the traditional views surrounding gender and succession rights. With the dwindling numbers within the royal family and the public’s interest in keeping the imperial family relevant, it might lead to necessary reforms in the future. However, it will require significant political will and public support to amend these deeply ingrained laws.
Editor: It’s a fascinating, yet complex, scenario. Lastly, could you reflect on how Princess Yuriko’s life story might influence younger generations in Japan today?
Dr. Saito: Absolutely. Princess Yuriko’s story is one of resilience, dedication, and service. For younger generations, she symbolizes how personal strength can contribute to broader societal causes. Her experiences during a significant historical period, alongside her commitment to philanthropy, can inspire young people to engage in public service and challenge societal norms. In a rapidly changing world, her life reminds us of the importance of compassion and active participation in community welfare.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Saito, for your insights today. The life and legacy of Princess Yuriko indeed serve as an important chapter in Japan’s history, and it’s significant for us to reflect on these moments during such transitions.
Dr. Saito: Thank you for the engaging discussion. It’s essential to remember and honor the contributions of figures like Princess Yuriko as we navigate the complexities of the modern world.
Editor: And thank you to our audience for joining us. We will continue to keep you updated on the developments within the Japanese imperial family and the implications for Japan’s future.