Princess Mako of Japan has become a source of inspiration for Harry and Megan as they navigate their new life in the United States.
The 31-year-old princess was recently spotted riding public transport in New York City, demonstrating how one can relinquish their royal status and embrace a life of independence with dignity and class.
In 2021, Princess Mako made headlines worldwide when she made the decision to forfeit her royal status in order to marry her college sweetheart, Kei Komuro.
The couple, who were captured in new photos obtained by the Daily Mail, were seen snuggling up at a bus stop while waiting for their ride.
Both appeared engrossed in something on Kei’s phone, showcasing their down-to-earth nature.
Unlike many others who leave their noble status behind, Princess Mako and Kei have chosen to live in a modest one-bedroom apartment, proving that they are financially independent.
It is worth noting that Princess Mako declined a $1.3 million payout from the Japanese government upon giving up her noble title.
The couple’s lifestyle has garnered praise from many.
One user commented, “They’re a cute couple.
They live in a one-bedroom apartment in New York City and take public transportation.
They don’t live beyond their means, aren’t eco-warriors flying in private jets while lecturing us on the environment, and don’t seem like the type of people who would exploit their children for personal gain.”
Another user highlighted the true essence of royalty, stating, “Mako demonstrates that true royalty is not about material wealth and elitism.
It is about recognizing the fortune of being born into a special family and using that privilege to benefit others or lead a quiet life, if preferred.”
Princess Mako’s lifestyle is now being compared to Megan’s, with some arguing that the narrative of a royal marrying a commoner and falling in love started with Harry and Megan.
Princess Mako, as the niece of Japan’s Emperor Naruto and the eldest daughter of Crown Prince Fumito, represents a different scenario altogether.
Princess Mako and Kei met during their time at International Christian University, possibly around 2014.
Their engagement was announced in May 2017.
In contrast, Megan met Harry in 2016 and got engaged by November of the following year, after a relatively short period of knowing each other.
Furthermore, while Megan retained her title upon leaving the British royal family, Princess Mako, who was born into royalty, willingly gave up her title.
The princess and Kei opted for a simple wedding at a registration office in Tokyo, followed by a small press conference to confirm her decision to leave her royal status behind.
They then relocated to the United States, where Kei works as a lawyer.
Princess Mako’s departure from royal life was met with admiration and respect from the press, who praised her for her manners and politeness.
In contrast, Megan’s wedding to Harry was a grand affair, costing millions of dollars and receiving worldwide attention.
Megan later claimed in an interview with Oprah that she and Harry had actually married in a private ceremony before the public event, which was proven to be false.
The fact that Megan referred to her wedding as a spectacle for the world further irked many, considering that the British taxpayers helped fund the event.
Princess Mako’s understated approach to her departure from royal life stands in stark contrast to Megan’s more extravagant choices.
As Harry and Megan continue to navigate their new life in the United States, they may find inspiration in Princess Mako’s example of independent living with dignity and class.
By observing her choices and embracing a more modest lifestyle, they can forge their own path and redefine what it means to be royals in the modern world.