This article explores the history of the Japanese Royal Family and the surname "Aki" that is used by all members of the Imperial House. The surname has been used since 1889 when Emperor Meiji changed his surname from Mutsu to Aki, reflecting his love for nature and desire for peace and harmony during his reign. Other famous Japanese surnames include Akimoto, Oda, Yamamoto, Suzuki, Takahashi and more - each conveying ideas related to nature or peace & harmony which are core values associated with royalty & nobility throughout much of East Asia's history & culture.