Royals of Japan

[Mutagen]

With Akihito abdicating and his son Naruhito set to ascend the throne on May 1, the new era name has been released: Reiwa.

Guardian article on how it breaks tradition in some ways.

As an unintended side effect, the new era name also appears to be benefitting the Real Estate Institute of Western Australia.

[Witchie]

I like that they are using a phrase from Japanese writings instead of Chinese. Found that odd tbh.

[ladyboy]

I just read an article this morning about how the 10-day celebration/holiday is wreaking havoc with Japanese people who don't know what to do with all the time off (alternately, some worrying about not being paid for 10 days). It does seem like a rather long time to close everything.

[Mutagen]

My favorite not-really-serious conspiracy theory about the 10-day holiday is that it's Abe's attempt to address the birth rate problem by giving people ample time to, uhh, spend together.

[petitesuite]

That is ABSOLUTELY the kind of conspiracy I can get behind! Royally-endorsed boning.

[Mutagen]

Princess Mako to wed commoner fiance amid controversy. This man's especially heinous crimes include:

- Being the son of a single mother
- His mother owing debt a former romantic partner
- Wearing his hair in a "disrespectful ponytail"

The couple has apparently decided to throw up the deuces and move to New York. Good for them. Superficial note: the disrespectful ponytail is a good look for him. 

[tabby]

Mako's well shut of the whole royal business. The Imperial Household seems like it's incredibly toxic. I wish Mako and her fiancé all happiness.

[gremlin45]

Mako, whom agency officials say is suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder due to excessive media and public criticism, also declined a payment of $1m (£742,000) payment in taxpayers’ money that is traditionally given to women who relinquish their royal status.

I bet there were either a ton of hoops to jump through or they would have been given hell for taking it. Far better to be free of strings, if you can afford it.

I hope Mako and Kei Komuro have a happy life in New York.

[Sunnyhorse]

The fact that they hadn't seen each other in three years makes me worry, but they also seem devoted to one another to keep things going that long. I hope they enjoy a lovely intimate wedding, then build a wonderful life in the States and, in so doing, flip the bird at the IHA every chance they get.

[Mutagen]

Oct 25, 2021 7:37:02 GMT -4 tabby said:

Mako's well shut of the whole royal business. The Imperial Household seems like it's incredibly toxic. I wish Mako and her fiancé all happiness.

I love all the angst about the number of male heirs, while the IHA makes federal prison look like a more joyful and dignified place to spend the rest of your life.