How far will Japan go to preserve the 2,600-year-old male imperial bloodline? episode artwork

EPISODE · Jun 26, 2026

How far will Japan go to preserve the 2,600-year-old male imperial bloodline?

from Access Asia · host FRANCE 24 English

Japan's imperial family is running out of male heirs, and a debate over how to preserve the hereditary lineage that has continued unbroken for centuries is dividing the nation. Meanwhile, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako wrapped up their two-week trip to Europe, and Japan took note that their royal Dutch and Belgian hosts both have women in line for the throne. FRANCE 24's Aurore Dupuis breaks down the looming succession crisis in the world's oldest monarchy. 

Episode metadata supplied by the publisher feed · Published Jun 26, 2026

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