According to public broadcaster, NHK TV, 25 year old Mako met Kei Komuro five years ago at a party to talk about studying abroad.
The couple both attended International Christian University in Tokyo.
NHK TV described the soon-to-be groom as an ocean lover who can ski, play the violin and cook and also worked in tourism.
Women cannot succeed to the Chrysanthemum Throne in Japan. Mako's father and her younger brother are in line to succeed Emperor Akihito, but only after her uncle, Crown Prince Naruhito, who is first in line.
NHK said Mako has already introduced Komuro to her parents and they approve.
A wedding date will be picked once the couple makes a formal report to the emperor and empress.
