The
Emperor of Japan is the head of the
Imperial Family and is the ceremonial
head of state of
Japan's system of
constitutional monarchy. According to the
1947 constitution, he is "the symbol of the State and of the unity of the people." Historically, he is also the highest authority of the
Shinto religion as he and his family are said to be the direct descendants of the sun-goddess
Amaterasu, and his importance also lies in dealing with heavenly affairs, including Shinto ritual and rites throughout the nation.