Japan's upper house of parliament voted to pass controversial revisions to the Imperial Household Law, just days after the lower house approved it. The changes allow princesses to remain in the imperial family after marrying a commoner and permit adoption of male-line descendants from former branches. However, critics argue the revision aims to prevent a female emperor, as public support for one remains high.
The imperial family is down to one young heir, 19-year-old Prince Hisahito. Princess Aiko, Emperor Naruhito's only child, is a popular candidate but remains ineligible. Former diplomat Seiichiro Noboru says barring women violates constitutional guarantees against gender discrimination. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi defends the male-only succession, citing 126 generations of male lineage.