Why are only men allowed on Japan’s Chrysanthemum throne?

Sign up for the Independent Women email for the latest news, opinion and features Get the Independent Women email for free Get the Independent Women email for free SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy The question of who will succeed to Japan’s Chrysanthemum Throne when there is a shortage of male heirs is in play again after the panel set up to look into the succession recently ruled out allowing a woman to ascend the throne. While the panel has announced that the current male line of succession must remain unchanged, support for allowing women to ascend the throne appears to be growing among the public. Himiko, unmarried, led a secluded life, spending her time in magic and sorcery, and was helped in affairs of the state by her brother One of the main arguments against having a woman ascend the throne is dilution of the imperial lineage, in that a reigning empress might marry a commoner and have their children. open image in gallery A depiction of Japan’s first female ruler, Queen Himiko Deguchi Nao,, for example, spoke in a masculine voice, and used male language forms when possessed.