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During the Meiji Restoration, Japan undertook significant political and social transformations to modernize and strengthen the nation, aiming to emulate the powerful European states of the time. The correct answer is a constitutional monarchy, which embodied the adoption of Western governmental principles while maintaining the emperor as a ceremonial figurehead.

The establishment of a constitutional monarchy in Japan meant that a constitution was created, which outlined the structure of government, delineated the powers of various branches, and provided certain rights to citizens. The Meiji Constitution of 1889 was a key document in this transformation, promoting a parliamentary system that allowed for a mix of both traditional imperial authority and modern parliamentary governance.

This system allowed Japan to maintain its imperial heritage while also adapting to the democratic trends seen in Europe, particularly in nations like Germany. By doing so, Japan was able to project itself as a modern state capable of participating on the world stage alongside established powers.

In contrast, other options reflect systems that do not align with Japan's goals during this period. The feudal system would imply a return to a pre-modern structure that Japan was actively trying to overcome. An absolute monarchy would mean centralized power with the emperor wielding unchecked power, contrary to the constitutional limits imposed by the newly developed system