Few debates reveal modern Japan’s contradictions quite like the argument over who should inherit the world’s oldest monarchy.

A popular princess drives support for having a female Japanese Emperor. But the country's first female prime minister opposes it.

Few debates reveal modern Japan’s contradictions quite like the argument over who should inherit the world’s oldest monarchy.

Japanese lawmakers revised succession rules to bolster the dwindling ranks of the royal family but ignored public backing to permit female succession.

Japan's imperial family has just 16 members, only five of them men, most elderly; if Prince Hisahito, 19, has no son, the dynasty could end; though 70% support female succession,…