Japan has had a total of 126 emperors since its first emperor, Emperor Jimmu, who is said to have ascended the throne in 660 B.C. However, the number of recognized emperors can be a bit complex due to the lengthy history and some periods where historical records are scarce or disputed.
The current emperor, Naruhito, ascended the throne on May 1, 2019, marking the beginning of the Reiwa era. Each emperor in Japan has played a significant role in the country’s cultural and political landscape, although their powers have changed over time, particularly after World War II when the emperor became a figurehead under the new constitution.
Throughout the centuries, some emperors were more influential than others, with periods of regency where shoguns ruled instead. Still, the imperial line is one of the oldest continuous hereditary monarchies in the world, which adds to the unique identity of Japan’s history and culture.