Some 8 out of 10 Japanese are in favor of a woman sitting on the Chrysanthemum Throne, according to opinion polls. Princess Aiko, who would be next in line in a system allowing both males and females to reign, enjoys overwhelming popularity, but political opposition remains strong. A recent event shed new light on the possibilities in this area.

Some 8 out of 10 Japanese are in favor of a woman sitting on the Chrysanthemum Throne, according to opinion polls. Princess Aiko, who would be next in line in a system allowing both males and females to reign, enjoys overwhelming popularity, but political opposition remains strong. A recent event shed new light on the possibilities in this area.