Japan’s Princess Kako, often seen at events involving people with disabilities turns 28, resumes public engagements

By Barrier Free Japan with extracts from The Japan News & The Asahi

December 29 2022

TOKYO – Princess Kako, the second daughter of Crown Prince Fumihito and Crown Princess Kiko, turned 28 on Dec. 29 and expressed her desire for all people to freely set their own paths in life.

This year, as Japanese society continues to learn to live with COVID-19, Princess Kako resumed her visits to areas outside Tokyo for the first time in about three years.

Princess Kako is often in attendance at events involving people with disabilities in Japan. In September in Kurayoshi, Tottori Prefecture, Princess Kako gave a speech in sign language at an acting and dance competition that incorporates sign language.  

In addition, she attended events including for the Japanese Breast Cancer Society and sports for disabled athletes.

Kako hopes “society will become one where everyone has a wide range of choices in their life and be able to choose a path that maximizes their own potential,” the Imperial Household Agency said.