In 1867, the shogun prevailed upon to surrendering his prerogative to the emperor. When the Shoguns resisted, they were defeated by the principal daimyo.

This led to the abolition of the shogunate. The imperial residence was moved from Kyoto to Tokyo.

The old castle of the shogun was converted into an imperial palace. This series of events is known as Meiji Restoration.

Emperor Mutsuhito

His competent person and reorganized Japanese institution in enlightened era (1868-1912)

(Witnessed the emergence of Japan as a modern and powerful state).

It would be a mistake to attribute Japan’s transformations to the emperor’s initiative. The throne was used as a Symbol to promote a sentiment of national solidarity and to give the Sanction of authority to their program.