The Most Famous Japanese Person, Ranked

Choose the person you think is the most famous!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 30, 2024 07:08
Understanding cultural impact can often be informed by knowing who holds influence in various societies. Japan, rich in both traditional and modern contributions to entertainment, technology, literature, and more, offers a unique perspective on fame and its effects on society. By participating in this list, users have the opportunity to contribute to a broader global understanding of leading figures in Japanese culture. This interactive process not only enlightens participants about influential personalities but also highlights trends and shifts in popularity and recognition over time.

Who Is the Most Famous Japanese Person?

  1. 1
    23
    votes
    Emperor Akihito
    Malacañang Photo Bureau · Public domain
    He was the emperor of Japan from 1989 to 2019 and played a significant role in promoting peace and reconciliation.
    Emperor Akihito is the former Emperor of Japan, having reigned from 1989 until his abdication in 2019. He is the first Japanese monarch to abdicate in over two centuries. During his reign, Emperor Akihito played a largely symbolic and ceremonial role as the head of state and the unity of the Japanese people.
    • Birth Name: Tsugu Akihito
    • Date of Birth: December 23, 1933
    • Reign: January 7, 1989 - April 30, 2019
    • Abdication: April 30, 2019
    • Successor: Emperor Naruhito
    Emperor Akihito in other rankings
  2. 2
    26
    votes
    He is a renowned animator and filmmaker, famous for his animated films such as Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro.
    Hayao Miyazaki in other rankings
  3. 3
    30
    votes
    Haruki Murakami
    Galoren.com · CC BY-SA 4.0
    He is a bestselling author, known for his unique style of storytelling and blending of genres.
    Haruki Murakami in other rankings
  4. 4
    25
    votes
    Yukio Mishima
    Ken Domon · Public domain
    He was a renowned author, playwright, and actor known for his controversial works and political activism.
    Yukio Mishima in other rankings
  5. 5
    13
    votes
    Akira Kurosawa
    映画の友 (Eiga no tomo) · Public domain
    He was a legendary filmmaker, known for his contributions to the Japanese film industry and his influence on world cinema.
    Akira Kurosawa in other rankings
  6. 6
    17
    votes
    Hakuho Sho
    Eckhard Pecher (Arcimboldo) · CC BY 2.5
    He is a sumo wrestler and the most successful sumo wrestler in the history of the sport.
    Hakuho Sho in other rankings
  7. 7
    1
    votes
    Yoko Ono
    Marcela Cataldi Cipolla · CC BY 3.0
    She is a multimedia artist, musician, and peace activist, known for her avant-garde works and association with the Beatles.
    Yoko Ono in other rankings
  8. 8
    9
    votes
    He is a former baseball player, known for his contributions to the New York Yankees and his success in both Japanese and American baseball leagues.
    Hideki Matsui in other rankings
  9. 9
    11
    votes
    She is a professional tennis player and a four-time Grand Slam singles champion, known for her on-court success and activism off the court.
    Naomi Osaka in other rankings
  10. 10
    6
    votes
    He is a renowned architect, known for his minimalist and modernist designs and his contributions to the field of architecture.

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Ranking factors for famous person

  1. Global recognition
    How well-known is the individual in different parts of the world?
  2. Historical significance
    Has the individual made significant contributions to Japanese history or world history?
  3. Cultural impact
    Has the individual had a significant impact on Japanese culture or global culture?
  4. Achievements and accolades
    What notable achievements, awards, or honors has the individual received?
  5. Enduring legacy
    Has the individual left a lasting impact on society that persists to this day?
  6. Popularity and influence
    Does the individual have a large following or significant influence on public opinion or trends?
  7. Media presence
    How often does the individual appear in news and media outlets?

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most famous Japanese person. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or man is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2800 views
  • 143 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each man once every 24 hours. The rank of each man is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most famous japanese person

Japan is a country known for its rich culture, technology, and cuisine. But beyond these, Japan is also home to some of the most famous people in the world. From actors to athletes, musicians to scientists, Japan has produced some of the most influential personalities of our time. When it comes to determining the most famous Japanese person, there are many contenders. However, only one can claim the top spot. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the most famous Japanese people and explore what makes them so influential.

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