Princess Mako-Komuro Engagement: 5 Rituals They Need To Do Before Marriage

When news about the engagement of Princess Mako and her former classmate, Kei Komuro broke, it sent the Internet abuzz with well wishes and admiration. Princess Mako belongs to the Japanese Imperial family and because Komuro is a commoner, she needs to give up her royal status before they can marry.

According to a Japan Times report, the couple has to go through at least 5 rituals or rites before their marriage. The princess is not the first to relinquish her status for love – Princess Sayako did so in 2005 and Princess Noriko in 2014.

Engagement Renews Discussion About Imperial Family Survival

Debate about the survival of the Imperial Family may likely start again after this news. Another Japan Times report cites that because the Imperial Family follows a male-only lineage system if no more male offspring will come after the youngest heir, Prince Hisahito (now 10 years old), it will be the end of the Imperial family. Reforms need to be done if Japan wants to maintain its imperial system.

Princess Mako and her soon-to-be fiance Komuro also need to go through several rituals before they can officially tie the knot.

1. Nosai no Gi  – Ceremony of Betrothal 

This ceremony of betrothal involves the bestowing of gifts from Komuro to Princess Mako. Prince Akishino and Princess Kiko will look on. This is undertaken by the designated messenger of Komuro at the place of residence of the soon-to-be bride.

2. Kokki no Gi – Announcement of Wedding Date

In another ceremony, Komuro’s messenger will officially inform the Princess and her family about the date of the wedding. Other details will be revealed as well such as the venue of the wedding ceremony.

3. Choken no Gi – Princess Mako Thanks The Emperor And The Empress

At the Imperial palace, before Princess Mako relinquishes her royal status, she needs to perform this ritual. This is her chance to give thanks to the Emperor and the Empress, her grandparents.

4. Judai no Gi  – Komuro’s Messenger Fetches The Princess At The Palace

On the day of the wedding, the princess simply cannot leave the palace without doing this ceremony. Again, the designated messenger of Komuro performs this ritual before he can bring the Princess to the place of the wedding.

5. Marriage Notification and Lump Sum Allowance

After the marriage ceremony, when the princess and her husband officially submit a notice of marriage, she becomes a commoner. As a commoner, she will register as such, with voting and other rights. As a former member of the Imperial family, Princess Mako will be given by the state a lump sum allowance. An 8-member council which includes the Prime Minister of Japan determines the amount.