Emperor Meiji I dreamed of a unified Japan. Of a country strong and independent and modern... Now we have railroads and cannon and Western clothing. But we cannot forget who we are. Or where we come from.
Played by Shichinosuke Nakamura 
The Last Samurai (2003) · 38 quotes
The Last Samurai (2003) · 38 quotes
5th most-quoted character in The Last Samurai (2003): in 3 of its 38 quotes
Scenes with Emperor Meiji
3 scenes Emperor Meiji Emperor Meiji Ambassador Swanbeck, I have concluded that your treaty is NOT in the best interests of my people.
Ambassador Swanbeck Sir, if I may...
Emperor Meiji So sorry, but you may not.
Emperor Meiji [Katsumoto has been granted an audience with the Emperor during a truce, in which he begs him to stop letting the new merchant-class of tycoons dominate his government, and accept the samurai back]
You rise against me, my teacher.
No, Highness. I rise against your enemies.
Emperor Meiji They are my advisors, like you.
They advise in their own interest!
Emperor Meiji I need advisors who know the modern world.
If I am no use, I will happily end my life.
Emperor Meiji No, I need your voice in the Council.
It is your voice we need, Highness. You are a living god. Do what you think is right.
Emperor Meiji [ruefully]
I am a living god - as long as I do what *they* think is right.
