Is Akihito A-List?
No — Akihito is currently ranked B tier — a well-known figure with a strong career but not quite a household name.
Reached A-list in 1989
Ascends to the Throne
Lost A-list status in 2019
Dropped to B tier — Abdication of the Throne
Ranking Timeline
Formally Invested
Formally invested as heir to the throne. Public duties begin.
Marriage to Michiko Shoda
Marries Michiko Shoda. This marks a shift toward modernizing the Imperial family.
Ascends to the Throne
Ascends to the throne upon the death of his father, Emperor Hirohito, beginning the Heisei era.
Hanshin Earthquake Response
Visits victims of the Great Hanshin earthquake. He provides support and comfort to those affected.
Tohoku Earthquake Response
Addresses the nation after the Great East Japan earthquake and tsunami, offering condolences and encouragement.
Abdication of the Throne
Abdicates the throne, becoming the first Japanese emperor to do so in over 200 years, passing the imperial duties to his son.
Last updated: February 23, 2026