TOKYO, July 19 (UPI) -- Japan's Crown Princess Masako, under pressure to produce a male heir, has been in seclusion since last December and has ceased her royal duties.
Hellomagazine.com reported Monday reports have emerged suggesting that Crown Prince Naruhito ought to divorce Princess Masako, who is said to be suffering exhaustion.
The latest speculation came after official leaks from the Imperial Household Agency, which oversees palace life, were reported in the Japanese media.
The crown princess made an appearance two weeks ago to play a game of tennis and attend a lecture, but the Imperial Household said her state of mind has not improved.
"She has not shown any signs of a positive change in her condition," said an Imperial Household representative.
The royal couple has a 3-year-old daughter and a survey indicated 80 percent of Japanese citizens believe the constitution should be changed to allow a female to ascend the throne.
