Ōka shugi

Ōka shugi (王家主義) is a Japanese term that translates to "Royalism" or "Monarchism" in English. It refers to a political ideology that advocates for the establishment, preservation, or restoration of a monarchy. Specifically within a Japanese context, Ōka shugi often implies support for the Emperor of Japan and the Imperial House, and the belief that the monarchy plays a crucial role in the national identity, unity, and stability of Japan.

The nuances of Ōka shugi can vary depending on the specific interpretation. Some proponents may advocate for a purely symbolic role for the monarch, similar to the current constitutional monarchy in Japan, while others may support a more active political role for the Emperor, potentially even a restoration of significant powers to the throne.

Historically, Ōka shugi has been a significant force in Japanese politics. In the late Edo period and the Meiji Restoration, figures supporting the restoration of imperial rule used arguments based in Ōka shugi to overthrow the Tokugawa shogunate. In the pre-war period, Ōka shugi became increasingly intertwined with ultranationalism and militarism. Following World War II, the role of the Emperor was redefined by the new constitution, establishing a symbolic monarchy, but Ōka shugi as a political ideology continues to exist in various forms within Japan. It is important to distinguish between genuine support for the monarchy and its potential instrumentalization for political purposes.