Who Is Empress Michiko? Age, Biography and Wiki
Empress Michiko, born on October 20, 1934, is a distinguished figure in Japanese history, having served as the Empress of Japan from 1989 until her abdication in 2019. In 2025, she is 90 years old and continues to be celebrated for her contributions to Japan’s cultural heritage and charitable works. Michiko was born in Tokyo and spent her early years in a well-to-do family, often pursuing interests in literature and music.
| Occupation | Princess |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | October 20, 1934 |
| Age | 90 Years |
| Birth Place | University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo City, Japan |
| Horoscope | Libra |
| Country | Japan |
Popularity
Empress Michiko's Popularity over time
Height, Weight & Measurements
As a public figure, Empress Michiko has always been known for her graceful presence. While exact measurements can vary due to public health changes, she is approximately 5 feet 3 inches (160 cm) tall. Her weight has typically been reported to be around 120 pounds (54 kg), maintaining a healthy and elegant appearance. Although specific body stats may not be disclosed, her poise is widely appreciated.
In June 2019, it was announced that Michiko had heart valve abnormalities and an irregular pulse, though she was reported to be well enough to undergo cataract operations.
In August 2019, it was revealed that she was diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer a month prior while undergoing a routine medical appointment, and was scheduled to have the growth removed. In September 2019, it was reported by The Japan Times that the surgery was successful.
On her 86th birthday in October 2020, it was revealed that she had been suffering from a mild fever since May. She was diagnosed with deep vein thrombosis in August 2022 following the discovery of a clot in her right calf.
Family, Dating & Relationship Status
Empress Michiko married Emperor Akihito on April 10, 1959. Together, they have three children: Naruhito, Crown Prince of Japan; Akishino, the Deputy Crown Prince; and Sayako Kuroda, a former Princess. Following Emperor Akihito's abdication in 2019, Michiko has embraced her role as the Empress Emerita, continuing her involvement in various social causes but stepping back from official duties. There is no indication of any romantic relationships outside her marriage.
Michiko (美智子) is a member of the Imperial House of Japan. She was Empress of Japan as the wife of Akihito, the 125th Emperor of Japan reigning from 7 January 1989 to 30 April 2019.
Net Worth and Salary
In 2025, Empress Michiko is presumed to have a significant net worth attributable to her royal status and various investments made during her lifetime. While specific figures are generally not disclosed, estimates vary widely in the context of royal finances, with some sources suggesting a net worth in the range of $50 million to $100 million. Her earnings are primarily derived from the Japanese Imperial Household’s allocations and personal investments.
Career, Business and Investments
During her reign, Empress Michiko was involved in numerous charitable organizations, focusing particularly on education, health, and humanitarian efforts. Her public engagements often revolved around supporting children and education initiatives. Post-abdication, she has continued to lend her voice to various causes while supporting her family as they take on new roles within the imperial framework. Investments during her time as Empress partly included art, cultural preservation, and educational endeavors.
Empress Michiko had to cancel many of her official duties in the spring of 2007, while suffering from mouth ulcers, nosebleeds and intestinal bleeding due to psychological stress, according to her doctors. This would be similar to the situation of her daughter-in-law, Masako, who also underwent several episodes of depression due to the pressures of her position.
Social Network
Though Empress Michiko's presence on social media is limited, she has a significant following due to her historical and cultural contributions to Japan. The Imperial Family has utilized official websites and press releases to share updates about their activities and engagements. However, the Empress herself maintains a more personal and private life, away from the typical trappings of social media influence.
Education
Empress Michiko’s education includes a strong foundation in culture and arts, as she attended the prestigious Senzoku Gakuen College of Music and the University of the Sacred Heart in Tokyo. Her education contributed significantly to her artistic pursuits and social engagements, which she later employed effectively during her tenure as Empress.
Raised in Tokyo and in a cultured family, she grew up receiving a careful education, both traditional and European, learning to speak English and to play piano and being initiated into the arts such as painting, cooking and kōdō. She has an older brother Iwao, a younger brother Osamu, and a younger sister Emiko.
She is the niece of several academics, including Kenjirō Shōda, a mathematician who was the president of the University of Osaka from 1954 until 1960.
