Translation guide
The national flag of Japan is called 日章旗 (にっしょうき) or more commonly 日の丸 (ひのまる). This guide explains how to refer to it naturally in Japanese.
Referring to the national flag of Japan in general conversation or writing.
The most common and natural way to refer to the Japanese flag in everyday speech. Literally 'circle of the sun'.
あの船には日の丸が掲げてある。
That ship is flying the Japanese flag.
運動会で日の丸を振った。
I waved the Japanese flag at the sports day.
The formal or official name for the Japanese flag. Used in legal, governmental, or ceremonial contexts.
A descriptive phrase meaning 'national flag of Japan'. Clear and easily understood, but less idiomatic than 日の丸.
日本の国旗は白地に赤い丸です。
The national flag of Japan is a red circle on a white background.
日章旗は国旗及び国歌に関する法律で定められている。
The Nisshōki is defined by the Act on National Flag and Anthem.