Japan is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary government. The Emperor serves as the ceremonial head of state, while the actual political power is vested in the Prime Minister and the National Diet. The Prime Minister is the head of government and is appointed by the Emperor, typically from the majority party in the lower house of the National Diet. The National Diet is the bicameral legislature, consisting of the House of Representatives and the House of Councillors. Members of the House of Representatives are elected by the public, while those in the House of Councillors are elected through a combination of popular vote and proportional representation. The political landscape is dominated by the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), which has been the ruling party for much of Japan’s post-war history. The government operates within the framework of a constitution adopted in 1947, which renounces war and prohibits the maintenance of military forces for aggressive purposes. Despite being constitutionally limited in military matters, Japan has a self-defense force and works closely with its allies, particularly the United States, on matters of regional security. The political system is characterized by stability, consensus-building, and a strong emphasis on economic development and international cooperation.