The Japanese flag: meaning, history and design
The Japanese flag, called Nisshoki (sun-mark flag) and commonly known as Hinomaru (circle of the sun), is one of the simplest national flags in the world: a red disc centred on a white rectangle. Its design reflects Japan's name, Nihon or Nippon, often translated as the origin of the sun.
Meaning
The red disc represents the sun, linked to the sun goddess Amaterasu in Shinto tradition and to the idea of Japan as the land of the rising sun. White is often associated with purity and honesty. The design has been used on fans, banners and ships for centuries.
History
Sun-disc banners appear in Japanese history from at least the medieval period. In 1870, the Hinomaru was designated as the ensign for merchant ships. It served as the de facto national flag for more than a century before being formally confirmed by the Act on National Flag and Anthem in 1999.
Official design
| Element | Specification |
|---|---|
| Proportions | Height to width 2:3 |
| Disc | Centred, diameter three fifths of the flag's height |
| Colours | White background, red disc (beni-iro, a deep crimson) |
The 1999 law slightly adjusted the earlier proportions, which had placed the disc a little off-centre and used a 7:10 ratio.
The Rising Sun flag
The Rising Sun flag (Kyokujitsu-ki), with red rays spreading from the disc, is a different flag. It is used today by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and appears in some traditional designs, but it is associated with Japan's wartime past in neighbouring countries and remains controversial. The national flag is the plain disc.
When the flag is displayed
The flag flies on government buildings, at schools during ceremonies, at sports events and on national holidays, when some households and businesses also display it. Treating it with respect, as with any national flag, is expected.
The flag in everyday design
The simple red-and-white motif appears in packed lunches, such as the hinomaru bento with a pickled plum on white rice, and in countless logos and souvenirs. Recognising the Japanese flag helps decode many symbols seen during a trip.
Flag etiquette
The flag should not be allowed to touch the ground, and it is taken down at sunset when flown outdoors at official buildings. During mourning periods, it may be flown at half-mast or with a black ribbon.
Prefectural flags
Each of the 47 prefectures has its own flag, often a stylised symbol on a coloured background. Tokyo's flag features a six-pointed emblem on purple, while Hokkaido's shows a seven-pointed star.
The national anthem
The national anthem, Kimigayo, recognised by the same 1999 law as the flag, is one of the shortest anthems in the world. Its lyrics come from a classical poem over a thousand years old.
Colour and symbolism in design
Red and white together, called kohaku, are associated with celebration and good fortune in Japan. They appear in ceremonies, New Year decorations and the year-end singing contest broadcast on television, which reinforces the cheerful image of the national colours.
Official source: Japan National Tourism Organization
Frequently asked questions
What does the red circle on the Japanese flag mean?
It represents the sun, reflecting Japan's name, the land of the rising sun, and Shinto traditions linked to the sun goddess.
When did the Japanese flag become official?
It was used for more than a century and formally confirmed by the Act on National Flag and Anthem in 1999.
Is the Rising Sun flag the same as the national flag?
No. The national flag is the plain red disc. The Rising Sun flag with rays is a separate, sometimes controversial flag.