Prince Hisahito, the 18-year-old nephew of Emperor Naruhito, attended the entrance ceremony at the University of Tsukuba near Tokyo on Saturday. As the second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne, his university journey marks a significant step in his life.
Prince Hisahito, who graduated from the university-affiliated Senior High School at Otsuka in Tokyo last month, will focus on his passion for insects, particularly dragonflies. He has enrolled in the School of Life and Environmental Sciences.
“I am grateful for the opportunity to learn in various academic fields,” the prince told reporters before the ceremony. “Although I sometimes feel nervous about starting this new chapter, I want to make the most of every experience.”
His parents, Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Kiko, expressed their support. “We hope he has a fulfilling time at university,” they said in a statement.
To begin with, Prince Hisahito will commute by car from his residence at Akasaka Estate in Tokyo. Later, he will move to a rented apartment near the university in Tsukuba, Ibaraki Prefecture, depending on his academic schedule, according to the Imperial Household Agency.
Next September, Prince Hisahito will celebrate his coming-of-age at a traditional imperial ceremony, marking his transition to adulthood at 18. From that point on, he is expected to participate in court events as an adult member of the imperial family, while prioritizing his studies.
Unlike previous members of the imperial family who attended Gakushuin University, Prince Hisahito has chosen a different path. He began his education at Ochanomizu University Elementary School, followed by Ochanomizu University Junior High School. He then enrolled in Senior High School at Otsuka before choosing the University of Tsukuba, a first for an imperial family member.
The University of Tsukuba, founded in 1973, is home to about 10,000 undergraduates. Notable alumni include professional footballer Kaoru Mitoma, who plays for Brighton & Hove Albion in the English Premier League.
Prince Hisahito’s decision to attend the University of Tsukuba reflects his personal academic interests and his desire to carve out his own path while continuing to fulfill his duties as a member of the imperial family.
