Japan’s Princess Aiko, 22, says it’s ‘sobering’ to make her first step as ‘member of society’ as she begins work for the Japanese Red Cross
Princess Aiko, the daughter of the Emperor and Empress, started working for the Japanese Red Cross in Minato Ward today.
Speaking to reporters outside the JRCS in Tokyo, the 22-year-old said: ‘It’s a sobering feeling to take my first step as a member of society’
The princess, who is assigned to the youth and volunteer division of the JRCS, was smartly dressed in a navy blue skirt suit.
Her modest A-line skirt fell past her knees and she paired it with a square, cropped navy blue blazer in the same fabric.
Princess Aiko paired the suit with a crisp, white button-up shirt with the top and bottom open, and simple black pumps with a low heel.
Princess Aiko (photo) started working for the Japanese Red Cross in the Minato district today.
The daughter of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako is pictured outside the Japanese Red Cross building in Tokyo
Aiko (pictured bowing to the media) first announced in January that she would be joining the Japanese Red Cross
SMART: The princess (pictured outside the Red Cross building in Tokyo) wore a smart navy blue skirt suit for her first day
Princess Aiko kept her look simple, with a stylish yet understated pantsuit, a sleek, low ponytail and no makeup
She kept the chic look simple, without makeup or other accessories, and her black hair in a neat ponytail.
The royal family announced in January that she would work at the Red Cross after her studies.
She has now completed her studies in Japanese Language and Literature at Gakushuin University.
Aiko, 22, the only daughter of Emperor Naruhito, 63, and Empress Masako, 60, has shown her commitment to charitable activities with her latest move.
Her contractual role with the Red Cross will not affect her official duties, and she plans to perform both at the same time, according to Kyodo News.
In a statement released by the Association in January, she said: “I am happy to become involved in the work of the Japanese Red Cross.”
She added: “At the same time, I feel determined.”
The Japanese Imperial Family has a long-standing association with the charity, and Empress Masako currently serves as honorary chairman of the organization.
The princess has just completed her studies in Japanese language and literature at Gakushuin University
Aiko is depicted walking out of the Japanese Red Cross gate as she begins work
Aiko said, “I am happy and humbled to work for the Japanese Red Cross, which I have always been interested in.
‘I continue to learn different things and work hard knowing that I am part of society.
‘So I hope that, even if only on a small scale, I can do something for people and society.’
The princess leads a private life.
She previously went through a period of bullying and anxiety during her childhood, which caused her to drop out of school.