the Three Sacred Treasures; the Imperial Regalia of Japan
Refers to the mirror, sword, and jewel that symbolize the legitimacy of the Japanese imperial throne. Used in historical, cultural, and mythological contexts.
The Three Sacred Treasures consist of the mirror, the sword, and the curved jewel.
three status symbols; three must-have items
Colloquial, idiomatic use likening a set of three highly desirable items to the imperial regalia. Often used humorously or in marketing, e.g., the 'three sacred treasures' of a new home (TV, fridge, washing machine) or of a salaryman (watch, car, golf clubs).
In the Showa era, the three status symbols for a new household were a TV, a fridge, and a washing machine.