Japan government presents Imperial succession bill allowing male adoptees from former princely families

The Japanese cabinet office held a full‑house meeting with the speakers and vice‑speakers of both houses to explain the government’s draft amendment to the Imperial Household Law. Minister of State for Digital Reform Kihara outlined the proposal, which seeks to preserve the male line of succession while introducing an “exception” to the ban on royal adoptions. Under the draft, men aged 15 or older from former princely families who have no spouse or children could be adopted into the imperial family, and any male adoptee who later fathers a son would become eligible for succession.

The plan also retains women’s royal status after marriage but allows them to voluntarily relinquish it. The draft was described as reflecting a “legislative consensus” compiled by both houses, but faced opposition from three opposition parties, which warned it deviates from public will. Critics have also raised concerns about the speed of the process and alleged political pressure from outside groups.

If approved, the amendment would be the first change to the succession rules since 1947, aiming to address the shrinking number of male heirs ahead of the future accession of Crown Prince Akishino’s son.