Japan on Saturday heralded the coming-of-age of Prince Hisahito with an elaborate ceremony at the Imperial Palace, where a succession crisis is brewing.

The nephew of Emperor Naruhito, Hisahito received a black silk and lacquer crown at the ceremony, which marks the beginning of his royal adult life.

“Thank you very much for bestowing the crown today at the coming of age ceremony,” Hisahito said.

“I will fulfil my duties, being aware of my responsibilities as an adult member of the imperial family.”

Although the emperor has a daughter — Princess Aiko — the 23-year-old has been sidelined by the royal family’s male-only succession rules.

“As a young member of the Imperial Family, I am determined to fulfil my role,” Hisahito said in March.

Second in line to become emperor after his fath

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