In a poignant moment for Japan, Princess Yuriko, the esteemed matriarch of the imperial family, passed away on Friday at the age of 101 in a Tokyo hospital.

The Imperial Household Agency confirmed her death, marking the end of an era for a family that has been a cornerstone of Japanese history.

Born in 1923, Yuriko’s life was intertwined with the royal lineage from the start.

She married Prince Mikasa, the younger brother of wartime Emperor Hirohito, in 1941.

This union not only strengthened familial ties but also linked her to the current Emperor Naruhito, making her a vital figure in the ongoing legacy of Japan’s monarchy.

Her passing comes just months after a significant diplomatic visit by Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako to the United Kingdom.

In June, they were graciously received by King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Buckingham Palace.

This historic meeting was seen as a gesture aimed at enhancing friendly relations between Japan and Britain, highlighting the importance of international diplomacy in royal engagements.

Throughout her life, Yuriko was more than just a royal figure; she was a devoted mother to five children and a steadfast supporter of her husband’s scholarly pursuits in ancient Near Eastern history.