Emperor Akihito is a quiet, studious type. The paragon of respectability. But, oh, what a family!
In a country where old folks still remember when it was a serious crime to defame the Imperial Household, Japan's tabloid-style weekly magazines just can't get enough unflattering gossip on its Imperial family — and especially the women who marry into it.
The Emperor, 77, is portrayed as beyond reproach, but his wife, who had epic battles with her in-laws when she was young, is painted as, well, let's say sensitive. And their daughter-in-law, Crown Princess Masako? What a tragedy! Still no son.