17 Facts About Ayako Moriya

Ayako Moriya, formerly Princess Ayako of Takamado, is a former member of the Imperial House of Japan and the youngest of three daughters of Norihito, Prince Takamado, and Hisako, Princess Takamado.

Ayako Moriya married Kei Moriya, a commoner, on 29 October 2018.

Princess Ayako was born on 15 September 1990 at the Aiiku Hospital in Minami-Azabu, Tokyo.

Ayako Moriya was the first member of the Imperial Family to be born in the Heisei period, the era of her first cousin once removed, Emperor Akihito.

Princess Ayako Moriya attended the prestigious Gakushuin School for her primary, junior high, and high school education.

In March 2013, Princess Ayako Moriya graduated Josai International University and was accepted into the graduate school.

In September 2013, Princess Ayako Moriya returned to Camosun College to begin intensive English studies.

Ayako Moriya completed her studies at Camosun College in April 2015.

Ayako Moriya then spent time at the University of British Columbia before returning to Japan in August 2015.

Ayako Moriya is currently a research fellow at JIU's Faculty of Social Work Studies.

Ayako Moriya continues to attend ceremonies and functions at the palace when studies permit.

Princess Ayako became formally engaged in a ceremony on 12 August 2018 to businessman Kei Moriya, a Keio University graduate who works for the shipping firm Nippon Yusen.

Ayako Moriya renounced her royal status in accordance with the Imperial Household Law.

Unlike other princesses who renounced their honorary posts and patronages, Ayako Moriya retained her status as honorary president of the Canada-Japan Society and the Japan Sea Cadet Federation.

On 6 August 2019, it was announced that Ayako Moriya was expecting her first child in the autumn.

On 21 April 2022, it was announced that Ayako Moriya was pregnant with her second child, whose birth would take place in the summer.

Ayako Moriya gave birth to her second son on 1 September 2022, at Aiiku Hospital.