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Hinomaru Flag on New Year’s Day・お正月の「日の丸」
Although the Hinomaru (日の丸 / "Ball of the Sun") was officially designated as Japan’s national flag through legislation in 1999 as the Nisshōki (日章旗 / "Flag of the Sun"), it had already been in use for centuries. References to its iconic design date back as early as 645, with the first written record appearing in 797.
Regardless of the name used, one common thread is the symbolism of the sun, which has been deeply rooted in Japanese mythology and religious traditions since ancient times.
The first official use of the Hinomaru flag was during the Edo Period (1603–1868) when the Tokugawa Shogunate required Japanese merchant ships trading with countries such as Holland, China, the United States, and Russia to hoist the flag.
However, during Japan’s imperial expansion in the early 20th century, the Hinomaru became a symbol of militarism, leading to deep-rooted controversy in many parts of Asia.
After World War II, the Allied Occupation prohibited public display of the flag without permission from GHQ (General Headquarters). It wasn’t until 1949 that the restriction was lifted, allowing the Hinomaru to be flown again without special approval.
Today, I see thee flag on national holidays—waving in front of some homes in my neighborhood, adorning tiny bumper flags on my local commuter bus, and flying at government buildings, including my local ward office.
For many younger generations visiting Japan as tourists, the Hinomaru carries a different meaning from that of their grandparents. Rather than viewing it through the lens of history, they associate it with other national symbols of modern Japan—Mt. Fuji, bullet trains, cherry blossoms, sushi, temples, and shrines.
In contrast, most of my younger Japanese friends and family are largely indifferent to the flag. This apathy may stem, at least in part, from its overt use by nationalist groups, who can often be seen fanatically waving it on the streets of Yokohama, particularly in areas where large groups of tourists gather on weekends.
Personally, I’ve always appreciated the colors and patterns of various national flags. The Hinomaru, in particular, fascinates me as a photographic subject due to its simple, minimalist design and striking contrast.
- Location: Imperial Palace, Chiyoda Ward, Tokyo
- Timestamp: 9:57・2025/01/02
- Fujifilm X100V with 5% diffusion filter
- ISO 160 for 1/2200 sec. at ƒ/8.0
- Provia/Standard film simulation
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