Prince Hisahito, the only son of Crown Prince Akishino, plans to enroll at the University of Tsukuba come April next year, sources said Wednesday.
The 18-year-old, who is second in line to the Chrysanthemum Throne and currently a third-year student at the university’s affiliated high school, secured admission through the institution’s recommendation-based entrance exam held in November, they said.
Since childhood, Hisahito, the nephew of Emperor Naruhito, has shown a keen interest in insects and other living organisms. He conducted research on dragonflies inhabiting the Akasaka Estate in Tokyo’s Minato Ward, where he resides, as well as the Imperial Palace grounds, compiling his findings into a research paper.
In August, he attended an international entomological conference, demonstrating his passion for studying natural history that focuses on insects and their habitats. This interest has fueled his dedication to academic pursuits in preparation for university.
In November, Crown Prince Akishino expressed his hope that his son will have opportunities to study abroad in the future.
A senior official of the Imperial Household Agency warned in September that misinformation was circulating regarding Hisahito’s future plans, after a weekly magazine and other media reports said that he may seek admission to the prestigious University of Tokyo through a recommendation system, sparking an online petition campaign in opposition.
Information from Jiji added
