List of Japanese Emperors from 660 BC – Present

Yes, Japan has had female emperors.


Historically, eight women have ascended to the Chrysanthemum Throne.


These female rulers, known as “Empress Regnants,” include notable figures such as Empress Suiko, who reigned from 593 to 628, and Empress Kōken, who reigned twice, first from 749 to 758 and then as Empress Shōtoku from 764 to 770.


The last female emperor was Empress Go-Sakuramachi, who ruled from 1762 to 1771.


These women led the country during different periods, demonstrating that Japan’s imperial history includes significant contributions from female leaders.

The youngest emperor of Japan to assume the throne was Emperor Antoku, who became emperor at the tender age of 2 years old in 1180.


His reign, however, was during a tumultuous period in Japanese history, marked by the Genpei War, a conflict that led to the establishment of samurai rule over Japan.


Emperor Antoku’s reign was short-lived; he tragically died at the age of 6, in 1185, during the Battle of Dan-no-ura, a decisive battle that ended the war and solidified the Minamoto clan’s power in Japan.

Today, the Emperor of Japan serves as a symbolic figurehead, embodying the unity and continuity of the nation.


Following Japan’s post-World War II constitution, which was enacted in 1947, the emperor holds no governing power or political authority.


Instead, his role is largely ceremonial and includes participating in various cultural and public events, national ceremonies, and diplomatic meetings.


The Emperor performs duties such as greeting foreign dignitaries, attending cultural events, and partaking in traditional Shinto religious ceremonies.


Emperor Naruhito, the current emperor, continues this tradition, representing Japan’s cultural heritage and acting as a symbol of the Japanese people’s peace and unity.