Emperor Meiji

Awards & Honours

Awards Won

Honours

Rankings

Records

Emperor Meiji stands as the architect of modern Japan, overseeing a transformation that reshaped the nation from a feudal society into a global imperial power. His reign saw the creation of the first Japanese constitution, the establishment of a parliamentary system, and the modernization of the military and economy. He is celebrated for his role in ending isolationism and integrating Japan into the international community. His legacy includes the Meiji Shrine, a testament to the nation's gratitude, and the enduring influence of his policies on contemporary Japanese society.

AwardsEmperor Meiji received numerous state honours and foreign orders during his reign, reflecting Japan's entry into the international community of powers. He was awarded the Order of the Garter by the United Kingdom and the Order of the Golden Fleece by Spain. Posthumously, he was honored as "Meiji the Great" and deified as a kami in State Shinto. The Meiji Shrine and Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery stand as enduring tributes to his legacy.

Honours & Distinctions

Imperial Title

Japanese Imperial Household·1867

122nd Emperor of Japan

Order of the Garter

United Kingdom·1876

Knight of the Most Noble Order of the Garter

Order of the Golden Fleece

Spain·1871

Knight of the Order of the Golden Fleece

Meiji the Great

Japanese Government·1912

Posthumous title honoring his contributions

Rankings & Lists

#22

Most Famous Person from Japan

iFANN Global Fame Rankings·2026

#96

Most Famous Person in Japan

iFANN Global Fame Rankings·2026

Records & Feats

Longest-Reigning Monarch in Japanese History

Historic First·1912

Reigned for 45 years, from 1867 to 1912, transforming Japan into a modern power.

Victory in Russo-Japanese War

Military Achievement·1905

First Asian power to defeat a European empire in a major war, leading to global recognition.