- Emperor Jimmu: According to Japanese mythology, Emperor Jimmu was the first emperor of Japan. He is said to have ascended the throne in 660 BC.
- Prince Shotoku: Prince Shotoku was a regent of Japan from 593 to 622. He is credited with introducing Buddhism to Japan and with creating the first Japanese constitution.
- Empress Suiko: Empress Suiko was the first female emperor of Japan. She reigned from 593 to 628.
- Emperor Tenmu: Emperor Tenmu was the first emperor of Japan to establish a centralized government. He reigned from 673 to 686.
- Empress Genmei: Empress Genmei was the second female emperor of Japan. She reigned from 707 to 715.
- Emperor Shomu: Emperor Shomu was the first emperor of Japan to build a permanent capital city. He reigned from 724 to 749.
- Emperor Kanmu: Emperor Kanmu was the first emperor of Japan to move the capital city to Heian-kyo (present-day Kyoto). He reigned from 781 to 806.
- Emperor Seiwa: Emperor Seiwa was the first emperor of Japan to have his reign name chosen by the emperor himself. He reigned from 858 to 876.
- Emperor Uda: Emperor Uda was the first emperor of Japan to abdicate the throne. He reigned from 887 to 897.
- Emperor Daigo: Emperor Daigo was the first emperor of Japan to attempt to restore the power of the imperial family after a period of civil war. He reigned from 897 to 930.