On March 18, 2025, Prince Hisahito, the son of Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko, graduates from Tsukuba University Senior High School, embarking on a significant educational milestone as he prepares to enter Tsukuba University this spring. His enrollment is momentous, as he will be the first male royal family member with succession rights to attend university outside the traditional Gakushuin University since World War II.
Tsukuba University, located in Tsukuba City, Ibaraki Prefecture, is known for its advanced research facilities and diverse academic programs. Prince Hisahito's selection marks a departure from long-standing traditions where members of the imperial family primarily attended Gakushuin, which was established as far back as 1847. Historically, the Imperial Family School Order, enacted to guide royal education, stipulated their studies at Gakushuin or affiliated institutions, reinforcing its central role within the imperial family's educational framework.
The 'Imperial Family School Order,' which dictated these educational paths, was abolished post-war in 1947. This shift paved the way for diverse educational opportunities for royal family members. Now, the tradition continues to evolve as Prince Hisahito, who attended Ochanomizu University Kindergarten, elementary school, junior high, and then Tsukuba University Senior High School, breaks away from the convention of Gakushuin.
Commenting on this educational pathway, Prince Akishino noted, "What the person wants to do is the most important," emphasizing the importance of personal choice and autonomy for his children. His statement highlights a progressive approach to education within the royal family, valuing individual interests and aspirations over conventional expectations.
The historical backdrop of Gakushuin's dominance reflects the long-standing connection between the Japanese imperial family and the educational institution. Established originally as a school for the children of court nobles, Gakushuin has been the educational foundation for many royals. Notably, Princess Mako and Princess Kako both graduated from International Christian University (ICU), showcasing the increasing diversification of educational paths taken by members of the imperial family.
Prince Hisahito’s lack of attendance at Gakushuin makes him the first imperial family member born after World War II to forgo the school entirely. This may signal a broader trend where future royal children will have more freedom to choose their educational paths, reflecting contemporary values and possibly leading to the emergence of new opportunities for royal family members.
With the transition to Tsukuba University, questions arise about how Prince Hisahito will navigate his academic future, particularly commuting to and from the campus, which is located at quite some distance from Tokyo, where many imperial family events are held. Yoshida Naomasa, the head of the Imperial Household Agency, confirmed last December, upon the announcement of Hisahito's acceptance, the support and care provided by the family to facilitate his educational aspirations.
The academic environment at Tsukuba University is reputed for its research and development initiatives, particularly within the fields of life sciences and technology. The decision for Hisahito to study biology signifies not only his personal interests but also the royal family's hope for him to contribute positively to society through education and research.
This step taken by Prince Hisahito, facilitated by his parents’ encouragement and modern perspectives on education, showcases the continued evolution of the imperial family’s approach to traditional values. With the contemporary emphasis on individual agency, this graduation and subsequent university admission reflect the changing role of royals within Japanese society.
Undoubtedly, as Prince Hisahito steps upon this new academic path, he carries with him the legacy of the imperial family, yet he also embodies the innovative spirit of the new generation. His experience at Tsukuba University will be watched closely, potentially reshaping how future members of the imperial family approach their education and responsibilities. His story seems only just beginning as he prepares to blend royal tradition with modern aspirations.
