In the age of selfies and instant updates, even the most time-honored traditions are getting a digital makeover.
On April 1st, 2024, Japan's famously reserved Imperial Family announced their official Instagram account, @kunaicho_jp. This move marked a significant shift for an institution steeped in centuries of protocol and mystique.
While people in Japan use social media in a kind of more seclusive way, the many platforms have become an increasingly dominant force in the country, especially among young adults.
By entering this digital space, the Imperial Family hopes to foster a sense of connection with a demographic less familiar with their role.
The first posts featured a mix of photos and videos, highlighting Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako carrying out their duties – attending state ceremonies, meeting foreign dignitaries, and visiting disaster-stricken areas.
The Japanese Imperial Family is one of the oldest hereditary monarchies in the world, with its roots tracing back over 2,000 years.
At the apex of the Japanese social and political hierarchy, the Imperial Family holds a symbolic and ceremonial role in contemporary Japan, embodying the nation's unity and continuity.
At this time, the Imperial Family of Japan is led by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako. Naruhito ascended to the Chrysanthemum Throne on May 1, 2019, following the abdication of his father, Emperor Akihito. Empress Masako, a former diplomat, who married Naruhito in 1993 and has since been an influential figure in promoting cultural exchanges and international relations.
The Imperial Family is supported by various members who fulfill ceremonial duties and engagements.
Notable members include Crown Prince Akishino (Naruhito's younger brother), Crown Princess Kiko, and their two daughters, Princess Mako and Princess Kako. Prince Akishino is the heir presumptive to the throne, followed by his son, Prince Hisahito, as there is no male heir apparent after him.
It's essential to understand that the role of the Imperial Family in contemporary Japan is largely symbolic, with the Emperor serving as the "symbol of the State and of the unity of the people," according to the Japanese Constitution. Their activities primarily involve participating in traditional ceremonies, receiving foreign dignitaries, and engaging in cultural and charitable events.
Throughout history, the Japanese Imperial Family has faced various challenges, including the tumultuous periods of feudal warfare, the Meiji Restoration, and the aftermath of World War II. However, they have adapted and evolved, maintaining their position as respected figures within Japanese society.
Despite their symbolic role, the Imperial Family remains a subject of fascination both domestically and internationally, embodying tradition, continuity, and a connection to Japan's rich historical past.
With a lineage that can be traced back to millennia, the Japanese Imperial family holds a unique position in Japanese society.
Unlike their European counterparts who actively engage with the public, the Japanese Emperors have traditionally maintained a more distant and dignified presence.
Their public appearances are carefully orchestrated, leaving many citizens with a limited understanding of their daily lives and duties.
By finally making their presence on social media, the family can now make things more public.
Through Instagram, the public can finally get a glimpse into their hidden world, by offering a valuable window into a world previously unseen by most.
Fans and followers should not expect candid selfies or behind-the-scenes glimpses into palace life, because the @kunaicho_jp feed is a curated showcase of the Imperial Family's official activities.
It's worth noting that the foray presents several challenges.
Striking a balance between tradition and modernity is a delicate act.
The Imperial Household Agency, responsible for managing the account, must navigate the potential pitfalls of informality, while still fostering a sense of engagement.
Security is another concern, with comments currently disabled to prevent potentially offensive or disrespectful interactions.
It's also worth noting that a year before this, on April 2023, Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako began their own Imperial Household website
Around the world, the more progressive royal families in Europe, such as King Frederik and Queen Mary in Denmark, through to more conservative monarchs like the British royal family, have been using social media as their tools to communicate to the public, and have considered the platforms increasingly valuable to keep their subjects and interested parties up-to-date with their daily lives and public activities.
Among the handful, the British royal family is among the most popular royal households in terms of social media.
On Instagram, King Charles III and Queen Camilla have over 13 million followers, whom they post to on an almost daily basis, using the handle
Crown Prince and Princess, William and Kate also run a popular Instagram account with high engagement, sometimes with thousands of comments on their posts.