All You Need to Know About the Japanese Flag Guide

The Japanese flag, known as the Nisshōki or Hinomaru, is a simple yet deeply symbolic emblem that represents the nation's rich history and cultural heritage. Featuring a crimson circle on a white background, this flag embodies the essence of Japan's identity.

Design and Symbolism

The Japanese flag consists of a white rectangular field with a crimson-red circle at its center. This design is often referred to as the "circle of the sun," symbolizing Japan's nickname, "The Land of the Rising Sun".

• Colors: The white color represents purity, honesty, and integrity, while the red circle signifies the sun and is associated with the sun goddess Amaterasu, who is believed to be the ancestor of the Japanese imperial family.
• Shape: The flag has a rectangular shape with a ratio of 2:3, and the diameter of the red circle is 3/5 of the flag's height.

History

The use of sun-themed flags in Japan dates back to ancient times. The first recorded use of such a flag was in 701 AD by Emperor Monmu. However, the modern version of the flag gained prominence during the Meiji period.

• Unification Period: During the late 16th century, Japanese feudal lords used flags with their family crests for identification in battles. The Hinomaru flag became more standardized and was used on trading vessels to ease identification by foreign ships.
• Official Adoption: In 1870, the Hinomaru was declared the official merchant flag, and by 1885, it became the national flag of Japan. It played a significant role in Japan's military and imperial activities, including the Sino-Japanese War and the Russo-Japanese War.
• Post-WWII: After World War II, the flag's use was restricted, but these restrictions were lifted in 1947, and by 1949, citizens could fly the flag freely. However, its association with military rule led to reduced usage until it was officially recognized as the national flag in 1999.

Flag Etiquette and Protocol

Respecting the proper usage and display of the Japanese flag is crucial. Here are some key guidelines:

• Hoisting and Lowering: The flag should be raised briskly and lowered ceremoniously. It is customary to hoist the flag at sunrise and lower it at sunset.
• Displaying the Flag: The flag should be flown freely and not entangled or obstructed. When flying the Japanese flag alongside other flags, the Japanese flag takes the position of honor.
• Half-Staff: The flag is lowered to half-staff as a gesture of mourning or respect. This is typically done on specific days of remembrance or when directed by authorities.
• Flag Retirement: When a flag becomes damaged, it should be retired in a dignified manner, usually by burning it in a respectful ceremony.

Mourning Styles

The Japanese flag has specific mourning styles:

• Half-Staff: Displaying the flag at half-staff is a common practice, similar to many other countries.
• Mourning Flag: An alternative style involves wrapping the spherical finial with black cloth and placing a black ribbon above the flag. This style dates back to the death of Emperor Meiji.

Subnational Flags

Each of Japan's 47 prefectures has its own flag, which typically features a symbol (mon) on a monocolored field. These flags often follow the same 2:3 ratio as the national flag and may include the name of the prefecture or stylized depictions of local features.

Special Flags

There are several special types of Japanese flags:

• Rising Sun Flag: Used historically as a war flag, it features a red disc with sixteen red rays radiating from it. This flag is still used in various settings, such as fishermen's banners and holiday decorations.
• Yosegaki Hinomaru: Known as the Good-Luck Flag, it is the national flag with inscriptions written by friends or family, typically given to soldiers departing for service.

National Significance

The Japanese flag is a tool to elicit and highlight national identity. It is hoisted during national holidays, cultural events, and international conferences. Despite its historical significance and complex public reception, the flag remains an important symbol of Japan's unity and heritage.