On April 21, 2025, Akiko Yoshibito, the eldest daughter of the late Prince Tomohito of Mikasa, made waves as she served as a radio personality for the first time on Nippon Broadcasting's special program, "Akiko Princess's All Night Nippon Premium." This appearance marks a significant moment in Japanese history, as it is the first time in half a century that a member of the Imperial Family has taken on such a role.
The two-hour program aired at 6 p.m. and featured a warm greeting from Akiko, who said, "Good evening, I'm Akiko Princess." This greeting set a friendly tone for the show, which included guests like Kabuki actor Kujuro Nakamura and Rakugo artist Shinohachi Tatekawa. The trio engaged in lively discussions about various topics, including Japanese traditional culture, high school baseball, and Akiko's passion for manga.
Reflecting on her experience, Akiko expressed that the show provided a unique opportunity for listeners to understand her better. "I spoke as close to my true self as possible, so I hope this was a good chance for people to understand me," she remarked. The program was part of Nippon Broadcasting's 70th-anniversary celebration, and Akiko's participation was a nod to her family's long-standing connection with the show. Her father, Prince Tomohito, also hosted an episode of "All Night Nippon" back in 1975, making this a poignant moment in the family history.
During the broadcast, Akiko clarified some misconceptions surrounding her title, explaining that the term "Queen" is often misunderstood. "Many people think of 'Queen' as a title, but it's actually a status within the Imperial Family," she stated. She further elaborated that the proper honorific for her is "Your Highness," and referred to the title of "Queen" as a rank rather than a form of address. This distinction is crucial as it highlights the complexities of royal etiquette and the importance of using correct titles.
As the conversation flowed, Akiko shared anecdotes from her private life, revealing her love for manga and how it has influenced her interests. She mentioned visiting unexpected places due to her hobby and expressed her enthusiasm for high school baseball, a sport she holds dear to her heart. Her candidness about her personal interests resonated with listeners, providing a glimpse into her life beyond the royal duties.
Notably, Akiko's appearance on the show sparked a wave of online reactions, with the hashtag "#AkikoPrincessANN" trending on social media shortly after the broadcast. Fans praised the show, with comments like, "It was a great broadcast, thank you!" and "I hope this becomes a regular program!" Many listeners expressed their desire for Akiko to continue as a host, appreciating her engaging and refined manner of speaking.
Akiko's foray into radio was not just a personal milestone; it also reflected the evolving relationship between the Imperial Family and the public. By stepping into this role, she is redefining the image of royalty in Japan, showing that members of the Imperial Family can connect with the younger generation through modern media.
In her opening remarks, Akiko acknowledged that some might find her greeting, "Good evening," a bit unusual. "I don't often say 'hello' or 'good evening' in my daily life. Instead, I thought 'Good evening' felt more natural for me," she explained. This statement not only humanizes her but also illustrates her desire to be relatable to her audience.
As the program concluded, Akiko reflected on the overwhelming response she received from listeners. "I was genuinely surprised at how many people reached out after the show. It made me realize just how significant 'All Night Nippon' is," she said. This acknowledgment highlights the impact of the program and its longstanding legacy in Japanese broadcasting.
Overall, Akiko Yoshibito's debut as a radio personality marks a notable chapter in the history of the Imperial Family and Japanese media. It bridges generational gaps and showcases the potential for royalty to engage with contemporary society in new and meaningful ways. The positive reception from the public suggests that this could be the beginning of a new era for the Imperial Family, one that embraces openness and connection.
