Japan revises imperial succession rules, but still excludes women

Parliament has adjusted imperial succession laws in the country, seeking to ensure the royal line endures, but maintained the bar on women emperors. A popular princess, Aiko, would be next in line if sex was no issue.

Japan is currently in search of next emperor; Japan's Imperial Household Law does not allow women to ascend the Chrysanthemum Throne, and the right to the throne can only be passed through the male line.

Japan's male-only succession rule means the emperor's teenage nephew and second in line, Prince Hisahito, will probably be the heir