The Emperor of Japan: A Symbol of the State

Japan’s Emperor Naruhito, left, waves to members of the public as his father Akihito the previous Emperor looks on.Photographer: Kiyoshi Ota/Bloomberg

The Emperor of Japan is the head of state and a symbol of the unity of the Japanese people. The current emperor, Naruhito, ascended to the throne on May 1, 2019. The emperor is the 126th emperor in a line that is said to date back to the legendary first emperor, Jimmu, who is said to have founded Japan in 660 BC.

According to Japanese mythology, the emperor of Japan is a descendant of the sun goddess Amaterasu. This claim is based on the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki, two ancient Japanese chronicles that were compiled in the 7th and 8th centuries AD. These chronicles tell the story of how Amaterasu sent her grandson, Ninigi-no-Mikoto, to rule over Japan. Ninigi-no-Mikoto is said to be the ancestor of the Japanese imperial family.

Some people believe that the emperor's descent from Amaterasu is a metaphor for his divine status. They believe that the emperor is not literally a descendant of a goddess, but that he is chosen by the gods to rule over Japan.

Others believe that the emperor's descent from Amaterasu is a myth that was created by the Japanese imperial family to legitimize their rule. They believe that the emperor is not actually descended from a goddess, but that he claims to be in order to maintain his power and authority.

Painting of the First Emperor of Japan Jimmu by Renzō Kita

Regardless of whether or not the emperor of Japan is literally a descendant of Amaterasu, the claim of his divine descent is an important part of Japanese culture and history. It has helped to shape the Japanese people's understanding of their country and its place in the world.

The emperor's role is largely ceremonial and symbolic. He does not have any direct political power, but he does perform a number of important state functions, such as:

1) Appointing the prime minister and chief justice of the Supreme Court

2) Convening the Diet (Japan's parliament)

3) Promulgating laws

4) Receiving foreign dignitaries

5) Representing Japan at international events

The emperor also plays an important role in promoting Japanese culture and traditions. He and his family often attend cultural events and festivals, and they also meet with artists and scholars.

The emperor's birthday (February 23) is a national holiday in Japan. It is a day when many Japanese people celebrate their country's rich history and culture.

The Emperor's Residence

The emperor and his family reside at the Imperial Palace, which is located in the heart of Tokyo. The Imperial Palace is a complex of buildings and gardens that was once the site of Edo Castle, the residence of the shogun.

The emperor's private residence is known as the Fukiage Palace. It is a large, Western-style building that was built in the early 20th century. The emperor also has a number of other residences at the Imperial Palace, which he uses for official functions and for entertaining guests.

Side view of the Imperial Palace in the Heart of Tokyo

The Emperor's Family

The emperor is married to Empress Masako. The couple has one daughter, Princess Aiko. Princess Aiko is not in line to the throne, as female members of the Japanese imperial family are not allowed to become emperor.

The emperor's younger brother, Prince Akishino, is the first in line to the throne. Prince Akishino is married to Princess Kiko, and they have two daughters, Princess Mako and Princess Kako.

The Emperor's Role in Japanese Society

The emperor is a respected figure in Japanese society. He is seen as a symbol of the country's unity and stability. The emperor's role is particularly important in times of crisis, when he can serve as a unifying force for the Japanese people. The emperor is also a symbol of Japan's traditional culture and values. He and his family play an important role in promoting Japanese culture and traditions at home and abroad.