Prime minister of japanread in another languagewatch this pageeditthe prime minister of japan naikaku-sōri-daijin, or shushō is the head of government of japan and the commander-in-chief of the japanese armed forces. the prime minister is appointed by the emperor of japan after being designated by the national diet and must enjoy the confidence of the house of representatives to remain in office. he is the chairman of the cabinet and other ministers of state serve at the pleasure of the prime minister. the literal translation of the japanese name for the office is minister for the comprehensive administration of (or the presidency over) the cabinet. emblem of the prime minister of japan