Crown Princess Kiko of Japan struck down with mystery illness

Photo by Ian Jones/CC/Flickr/Foreign Office




Japan’s Crown Princess Kiko has been ill with a mysterious illness since December.

The Imperial Household Agency announced on 6 January that Kiko has not been well since late last year and is unable to eat normal meals.

She has tested negative for both COVID-19 and the flu.

The Imperial Household Agency is considering arranging a detailed check-up on the 57-year-old to try to determine what is making her sick.

Crown Princess Kiko was well enough to attend New Year events at the Imperial Palace on New Year’s Day, but the Imperial Household’s announcement, it’s caused worry Kiko’s health has deteriorated since the holiday.

It’s unknown if she will attend the Showa Tenno-sai ritual on 7 January.  It is believed a doctor will examine her ahead of the ceremony and determine if she will be able to attend.

The ritual honours the late Emperor Showa – Japan’s longest-reigning monarch who was on the throne from 1926 until his death in 1989. He is the grandfather of Emperor Naruhito and Crown Prince Akishino.

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About the Author

Brittani Barger
Brittani is from the United States and has been researching, writing and reporting on the royals for over a decade. Successfully gaining exclusives and interviews with royals across the globe, Brittani left her role as an editor for another news site to help bring you Royal News. She's been seen on BBC World, WION News and other news programs to discuss the royal families.

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