What powers does the emperor of Japan have under the 1947 constitution?

Under the 1947 constitution, the emperor of Japan serves as the "symbol of the State and of the unity of the People" and exercises no independent powers of government. His role is strictly ceremonial and constitutional, and all acts of state he performs require the advice and approval of the cabinet.123

His constitutional duties include:
* Appointing the prime minister as designated by the National Diet.13
* Appointing the chief judge of the Supreme Court as designated by the cabinet.13
* Promulgating laws, treaties, cabinet orders, and constitutional amendments.13
* Convoking the National Diet.13
* Awarding honors and receiving foreign ambassadors and ministers.13

Beyond these formal duties, the emperor maintains an important ceremonial and religious role, particularly within Shintō tradition, such as performing imperial rites like the Niiname-sai harvest ceremony. Unlike the prewar era, when sovereignty was vested in the imperial institution, the current constitution derives the emperor's position from the will of the people.34