The national Flag of Japan is a base white flag with a large red disc (representing the rising sun) in the center. Its official name in Japanese is Nisshōki (日章旗, "sun flag") but the flag is more commonly known as Hinomaru (日の丸, "sun disc").

It was widely used on military banners in the Sengoku (Warring States) period of the 15th and 16th centuries. During the Meiji Restoration it was officially adopted for use as the civil ensign by Proclamation No. 57 on February 27, 1870 (27 Jan Meiji 3). However, it was not formally adopted as the national flag until August 13, 1999 by Law Concerning the National Flag and Anthem. Along with the national anthem Kimi ga Yo, the Hinomaru are considered controversial symbols of the militaristic past of the country.