On April 29, 1986, Emperor Hirohito named Yagi a Living National Treasure (ningen kokuho) for his contributions to the martial arts.
Miyagi was impressed by his dedication and hard work, and eventually taught him all the kata in the Goju-ryu syllabus.
To complement his karate training, Yagi enjoyed many activities including shodo, playing the piano and shamisen, and chinese chess.
Yagi's number one goal was for his students to promote peace, be good people and contribute to society.
Seiryu (East, Blue Dragon) and Byakko (West, White Tiger) go together, and Suzaku (South, Red Phoenix) and Genbu (North, Black Tortoise) combine.
[citation needed] Meitoku Yagi had three daughters, Chieko, Chikako and Chizuko; and two sons, Meitatsu and Meitetsu.