Q.

What does "Japan" mean?

A.

Japan (日本), pronounced Nippon or Nihon, means "the land of the rising sun" (日出ずる国).

Seemingly simple, the Japanese flag actually has a lot of meaning behind it.

The red circle which is called "Hinomaru" (日の丸) is the sun.
The white background is said to symbolize the honesty and integrity of the Japanese people.
The combination of the color red and white (紅白) is traditionally linked to celebrations.

One of the most popular TV programs airing on New Year's Eve is called Kohaku Uta Gassen (紅白歌合戦), where the red team and the white team of singers compete and celebrate the New Year together. This program has been airing every year since 1951!

What do you think about this culture?

Leave a comment, then hit the share buttons below to test your network!