From the sun goddess to their recent Instagram debut, here are some key things to know about the imperial family. Their divine status was renounced after World War II following Japan’s militaristic sweep across Asia in the name of Emperor Hirohito. Male bloodlineMale-only succession rules mean the imperial family is facing extinction, with only one current heir: Naruhito’s 17-year-old nephew Prince Hisahito. Instagram debutThe royals face huge pressure to conform to tradition and meet exacting standards of behaviour, with each move intensely scrutinised. Pressure on womenAs in Britain, women who marry into the royal family do not have an easy ride.

Source: The Express Tribune June 30, 2024 09:00 UTC