Prince Masahito, the younger sibling of Japan’s former emperor, was hospitalized on Wednesday following a high fever. He was admitted to the Japanese Red Cross Medical Center in Shibuya, Tokyo, around 6:40 p.m. local time. Further information on his health status has not been released publicly at this time.
The prince’s elder brother, Emperor Emeritus Akihito, reigned from January 7, 1989, until his abdication on April 30, 2019, stepping down due to age and health considerations. On May 1, 2019, Naruhito ascended the throne as the new Emperor of Japan.
Prince Masahito is widely recognized for his philanthropic efforts and his research into cancer causes, contributing to medical and social initiatives within the country.
Additionally, Princess Kako of Japan marked her 28th birthday with new official portraits that were released to the public, highlighting the ongoing visibility and public interest in the imperial family.