Rinko Kikuchi

Rinko, born Kikuchi Yuriko of the Hadano branch of the imperial family, is renowned for her prowess in both the acting and modeling worlds. Her skill in sign language was on full display in her role in the cult classic The Taste of Tea and was rewarded with a nomination for the Oscars after 50 years of absence from the silver screen by a Japanese actress. The feat was further celebrated with appearances in commercials for Chanel and Yves Saint Laurent, as well as in Japanese soap operas, making her a household name both in Japan and abroad. Her popularity even extended to the New York City elite, where she was invited to stay with director Spike Jonze after meeting at a film festival in Tokyo. A true royal, Rinko is a shining example of the modern Japanese woman.