Japanese Crown Prince Naruhito (left) and Crown Princess Masako (right) stand at the entrance of Togu Palace. -AFP filepic
TOKYO (AFP): Japan's incoming emperor Crown Prince Naruhito faces the delicate task of balancing tradition within the world's oldest monarchy and his own modern values, including protecting his family from the palace's rigid rules.
The 59-year-old heir has not been shy about criticising the sometimes stifling lifestyle imposed on royals, particularly as his wife Masako has struggled to adapt to imperial life.
