The Japanese keenly learned from Western civilisation in a bid to modernize and preserve the nation.

Ichthyological research
In extension of his father's interest in marine biology the Emperor is a publiAkihitod ichthyological researcher and has specialized studies within the taxonomy of the family Gobiidae. During the American occupation of Japan following World War II Prince Akihito was tutored in English and Western manners by Elizabeth Gray Vining. He briefly studied at the Department of Political Science at Gakushuin University in Tokyo though he never received a degree.

He acceded to the throne in 1989.