 |
Ayako MoriyaThe Japanese Emperor's cousin who married a commoner
Date of Birth: 15.09.1990
Country:  Japan |
Content:
- Birth and Early Life
- Education and International Studies
- Return to Canada and Research
- Engagement and Marriage
- Loss of Imperial Title and New Life
Birth and Early Life
Princess Ayako Takamado, born on September 15, 1990, is the youngest daughter of Prince Norihito Takamado and Princess Hisako. As the first child to be born into the imperial family during the Heisei era, she was a significant event.
Education and International Studies
Princess Ayako attended the prestigious Gakushuin School for her secondary education. She spent part of her high school years abroad, living with a New Zealand family. After high school, she enrolled at Josai International University in 2009, majoring in Social Studies. As part of her studies, she spent time at Camosun College in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, in 2010 and 2011. She completed her undergraduate degree in March 2013 and later pursued a master's degree.
Return to Canada and Research
In October 2013, Princess Ayako returned to Camosun College to focus on her English language proficiency. She completed her studies there in April 2015 and continued her education at the University of British Columbia. In March 2015, she obtained a master's degree in Social Welfare from Josai International University. Currently, she serves as a research fellow at her alma mater's Faculty of Social Studies.
Engagement and Marriage
On August 12, 2018, Princess Ayako became engaged to Kei Moriya, a 32-year-old businessman and graduate of Keio University. The couple met through Princess Hisako, who had been friends with Moriya's family. Moriya expressed his intention to support Princess Ayako's transition outside the palace. Their wedding took place on October 28, 2018, at Meiji Jingu Shrine in a private and traditional ceremony.
Loss of Imperial Title and New Life
In accordance with the Imperial Household Law, upon marrying a commoner, Princess Ayako relinquished her imperial title and left the Imperial Household of Japan. However, she retained honorary presidencies of the Japan-Canada Society and the Japanese Federation of Naval Cadets. The government also provided Ayako and Kei Moriya with a one-time grant of ¥107 million.
