Japan’s royal family has entered the world of social media with the launch of an Instagram account, signaling a move to connect with younger generations and shed its reclusive image. The @kunaicho_jp account, managed by the Imperial Household Agency, showcases Emperor Naruhito, Empress Masako, and Princess Aiko attending ceremonies and meetings, with 60 pictures and five videos highlighting the first three months of the year. Despite blocking comments on its posts, the account quickly gained over 320,000 followers in its first day, surprising many users who were not expecting the royal family to embrace social media so readily.
The decision to join Instagram is part of the royal family’s effort to reach out to younger audiences, with plans to potentially expand to other social media platforms like Facebook and X in the future. With the Imperial Family hoping to deepen understanding among the next generation, the move is seen as a step towards modernization in a country where traditional values and institutions hold a significant place. One student expressed excitement at the prospect of seeing more posts about Princess Aiko, who is close to her age and has recently graduated from university, highlighting the potential appeal of the royal family’s social media presence to younger demographics.
By entering the world of social media, Japan’s imperial family is following in the footsteps of other royals around the world, such as Britain’s royal family, who have been active on social media for over a decade. However, the move also comes with potential risks as seen in recent scandals surrounding other royal families, such as the controversy surrounding Princess Mako’s marriage to a commoner in 2021. Despite facing public disapproval and financial disputes, Princess Mako ultimately gave up her royal status and did not accept the traditional lump-sum payment given to female royals who marry outside the family, reflecting the challenges that can arise when traditional institutions intersect with modern media.
The Imperial Household Agency, known for its conservative nature, is taking a cautious approach to social media, with concerns about maintaining the dignity of the Imperial Family. While the royal family is seeking to appeal to younger audiences through platforms like Instagram, they are also mindful of the need to balance traditional values with modern trends. Jeffrey Hall, a Japanese studies lecturer, noted that the imperial family is comfortable with change happening slowly, reflecting their cautious approach to adapting to the digital age. By venturing into social media, Japan’s royal family is navigating the delicate balance between tradition and modernity, as they seek to engage with a wider audience while preserving their historical importance and cultural significance.
