Happy birthday to Princess Tomohito of Mikasa – the Japanese royal who counts judo and cooking among her passions

Prince Tomohito had struggled with health battles for years, and was first diagnosed with cancer in 1991, before going into remission. He was treated for cancer of the larynx in 2003 and, in 2008, the disease spread to his pharynx. In 2012 aged 66, he sadly passed away from his condition, having been hospitalised for some time. The Princess was devastated by her husband’s death, and she did not appear publicly during the mourning period, leaving ceremonial mourning matters to her daughter, Akiko. Around 660 people attended Prince Tomohito’s funeral, which was held at the Toshimagaoka Imperial Cemetery on 14 June.

Princess Tomohito at the state funeral of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe in 2022

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Since then, Princess Tomohito has maintained a relatively low profile. Her own life has also been blighted by illness; in 2022, she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and underwent surgery during the course of her treatment. She has, however, kept up with her public duties and is particularly involved with Japan’s Red Cross, serving as their vice president. She also holds several other roles with organisations, including her position as president of the Japan Rose Society and honorary president of the Japan Building Maintenance Association.

The Princess is actively involved with Japanese representation and travels across the globe on behalf of the country; she has also worked to help with the development of one of her passions, judo, on the world stage and promotes sports through NSCA Japan. During Prince Charles and Princess Diana’s trip to Japan in 1986, Princess Tomohito watched sumo bouts with the couple at Ryogoku; such is her dedication that the president of the International Judo Federation presented her with a certificate for her participation. As if that weren’t enough, in her spare time the Princess is well-known as an excellent chef, and has published two recipe books on home cooking. As she reaches this all-important birthday, the next few years look bright for Princess Tomohito – an invaluable member of the Japanese imperial family.