Japanese throne blossoms again

[Sylph]

[Sylph]

THE FUTURE EMPEROR
• The new heir is the son of Prince Akishino, 40, the Emperor’s younger son, and Princess Kiko, 39, the daughter of an economics professor. He has two sisters, Princess Mako, 14, and Princess Kako, 11
• The baby is now third in line to ascend the Chrysanthemum Throne, behind Crown Prince Naruhito and Prince Akishino
• The Emperor of Japan is a 2600-year-old line descended in legend from the Sun Goddess, Amaterasu Omikami. He has no political power, but is head of state, and is a constitutionally mandated “symbol of the people”
• He is also the highest priest of Japan’s indigenous Shinto religion. Every week he must conduct Shinto ceremonies in shrines at the Imperial Palace — to pray for his ancestors and for the well being of the nation
• The Prince will be educated at Gakushuin School and University, a private institution formerly known as the Peers’ School. He will also have a “prince education” from experts in tradition, religion and protocol
• Unlike European aristocrats, he cannot look forward to a youth of parties, yachts and skiing. The Japanese Imperial Family have no money of their own and live in seclusion, apart from their frequent public duties
• When Crown Prince Naruhito was born, there was a mini baby boom as couples hurried to conceive a daughter who might marry the future Emperor

[Q Steph]

Congratulations on the birth but this is so sexist at the same time.