Symbolism of the Rising Sun in Japan

The rising sun (旭日, kyokujitsu) is a multilayered symbol in Japan:

• Amaterasu (天照大神): Sun goddess, ancestress of the Imperial line. The sun = divine legitimacy, purity, life.
• Imperial Seal (菊花紋章): 16-petal chrysanthemum (not sunburst), but the Rising Sun Flag (旭日旗, Kyokujitsuki) — red disc with 16 rays — was military ensign (1870–1945, 1954–). Controversial in East Asia due to wartime use.
• National flag (日章旗, Nisshōki / Hinomaru): Red disc on white — "circle of the sun." Official since 1999.
• Cultural meanings: Hope, renewal, new beginnings, perseverance, good fortune. "Land of the Rising Sun" (日本, Nihon/Nippon = "sun origin").
• Everyday use: Corporate logos (Asahi, Japan Airlines), festivals, art, "first sunrise" (hatsuhinode) viewing Jan 1.

Distinction: Hinomaru (national flag) vs. Kyokujitsuki (military rising sun flag) — different designs, different sensitivities.