Japan's Diet Moves to Break 80-Year Bar on Imperial Adoption

Japan's Diet adopted a draft proposal on June 10, 2026 that would permit adoption of male descendants from 11 former branch families stripped of imperial status in 1947. The move addresses a narrowing succession line: Emperor Naruhito has no male heir, and only Prince Hisahito remains the sole male heir for the next generation. The proposal also allows female Imperial Family members to retain status after marriage. Further legislative steps remain before enactment.