Japanese Constitution and State System

Abstract

In 1868, Japanese state system transformed from feudal regime to the monarchy. This transition is called "Meiji Restoration" (Meiji Ishin). By this transition, Shogun (Military commander) in Edo (now, Tokyo) agreed to move the supreme authority of the state which had been held for 265 years to the Emperor in Kyoto1. Since Meiji Restoration, political power was, in fact, in the hand of aristocrats and higher echelons officers exclusively.