Photo/Illutration Princess Akiko is set to host a special edition of Nippon Broadcasting System Inc.’s "All Night Nippon." (Provided by Nippon Broadcasting System Inc.)

Princess Akiko will host a special episode of Nippon Broadcasting System Inc.’s flagship radio program "All Night Nippon" in April, the network announced on March 12.

This will mark the first time in nearly half a century that a member of the imperial family has hosted the program, following her late father, Prince Tomohito, who hosted his own one-shot episode in 1975.

Titled "Princess Akiko’s All Night Nippon Premium," the two-hour broadcast will feature the princess speaking about her life in her own words.

The show will also welcome Kabuki actor Nakamura Kankuro and "rakugo" storyteller Tachikawa Shinohachi as guests.

They are scheduled to chat about Japanese art and traditional performing arts―areas of Akiko’s expertise―and the show is to include a segment where she responds to messages and questions from listeners.

Akiko, the eldest daughter of Tomohito, graduated from Gakushuin University.

She earned a doctorate from the University of Oxford, becoming the first woman in the imperial family to do so.

Her book, "Red and Blue Gown: My Study Abroad in Oxford," became a best-seller, selling more than 300,000 copies since its paperback release last spring.

“It’s rare to have the opportunity to hear directly from a member of the royal family,” Maki Hiwara, president of Nippon Broadcasting System, said at a regular news conference on March 12.

“I think she has a keen sensitivity, shaped by her experiences living abroad, and observes Japan today with a broad perspective,” Hiwara said. “We look forward to hosting her and ensuring the show runs smoothly.”

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