Princess Kako of Akishino visited the Ise Jingu Grand Shrine in Ise City today to report her coming-of-age to the ancestral goddess of Imperial Family, Amaterasu Omikami. Like other female members of the Imperial Family who adhere to a white court dress code when visiting this shrine (see here, here, and here), Princess Kako wore a long ivory coat and small white hat. The hat, comprised of a tall domed crown, short brim and the simplest of embellishment, echoed a familiar hat style we’re used to seeing on her mother, Princess Kiko.
Designer: unknown
Previously Worn: While it is very similar to some of Princess Kiko’s hats, I believe it is new.
I can’t help being a little disappointed that, like her older sister Princess Mako, Princess Kako’s initial hat style is a replication of her mother’s hat style. I would much rather see her take millinery cues from Princess Hanako!
Photos from Asahi
Royal Hats 
Princess Kako looks elegant and dignified in this hat and coat. This hat shape suits her just like it suits her mother.
Princess Kako of Akishino looks so good in this hat and coat. Simplicity usually works well, when a formal attendance is required, as in this case.
this is the first I’ve seen of the shrine ceremony, is that why I found her white-on-white adorable instead of ho-hum? There must be some wiggle-room in court protocol, surely?
I like Princess Kako’s white hat and accessories with her ivory dress. Although the style is replicated from her Mother’s, I’m glad it’s not a bumper hat.
I don’t think the princesses from the Japanese royal family have much choice in their selection of hats or suits they wear. They have to follow very strict protocol and there is no allowance for individuality. She does have a sweet face and that coat is very lovely on her. I agree with Jane, too bad the colors of the hat and coat do not match.
Yes I agree with this, I doubt she has much of a say.
The rules are strict and I am guessing there is not much room for the design of the hat. I do think the hat and coat should be the same colour though.
no, they shouldn’t. Look on other royal ladies. All of them (and priests) wore cream/ivory and white oufits.