The Imperial Succession

Eligibility for the Imperial Throne

The Imperial Throne of Japan is succeeded to by male descendants in the male line of Imperial Lineage (Constitution, Article 2, and Imperial House Law, Articles 1 and 2).

The Order of Imperial Succession

• 1 The eldest son of the Emperor
• 2 The eldest son of the Emperor's eldest son
• 3 Other descendants of the eldest son of the Emperor
• 4 The second son of the Emperor and his descendants
• 5 Other descendants of the Emperor
• 6 Brothers of the Emperor and their descendants
• 7 Uncles of the Emperor and their descendants

When there is no Imperial Family member specified above, the Throne is passed to the member of the Imperial family next nearest in lineage. (Imperial House Law, Article 2).

Accession to the Throne

Upon the demise of the Emperor, the Imperial Heir ascends the Throne (Imperial House Law, Article 4).