Kikuko Nabeshima

Kikuko Nabeshima (born September 12, 1911 (Meiji 44) – February 12, 1989 (Heisei 1)) was a member of the Japanese Imperial Family. Her former title was Princess Kikuko. She was the eldest daughter of Prince Asaka Hikotaka and Princess Ayako. Her brothers were Prince Fuhiko and Prince Masahiko, and her sister was Princess Taki. Her emblem was a flower.

There are no detailed records regarding her place of birth or family background, but she was the wife of Marquis Nabetshima Naotaka, head of the Nabeshima family, which served as the domain lord of former Hizen Saga Domain. While there is no information indicating her withdrawal from the imperial family in 1953, it is presumed that she transitioned from an imperial family member to a commoner's wife.

She married Nabetshima Naotaka on May 12, 1931 (Showa 6). The following year, their eldest son, Naoyuki, was born; he later became the 14th head of the Nabeshima family. Her eldest son succeeded the headship of the Nabeshima family.

In terms of honors related to national ceremonies, she was awarded the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun’s Commemorative Medal at the Great Ceremony in 1928 (Showa 3). Additionally, on May 6, 1931 (Showa 6), she received the Second Class of the Order of the Sacred Crown.

Details about her personality, activities, or writings are extensively described in the 2008 book titled "Born into the Asaka Family: The Tumultuous Era Seen by Marquis’ Wife Kikuko Nabeshima," published by PHP Institute and authored by Kitakaze Yōko.

Records of her official activities and private life during her lifetime are limited. As an external source, family photo albums from the Asaka family have been made available.