Japan
- Language
- Japanese
- Anthem
- Kimigayo
- Duration
- 0:59
- Status
- Kimigayo remains Japan's national anthem today, though it faces some domestic and international opposition due to its perceived associations with militarism and emperor worship.
Japan National Anthem History
Kimigayo · 君が代
Kimigayo has served as Japan's de facto national anthem since the early 1880s, featuring ancient lyrics dating back to the 10th century. Though its current melody was established in 1880, the anthem was only officially adopted by the government in 1999.
Japan
Kimigayo
History timeline
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10th century or earlier
The words of "Kimigayo" first appeared in the Kokinshu, an ancient poetry collection, and were recited on auspicious occasions.
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1869
British band instructor John William Fenton composed the first music for "Kimigayo," though this initial melody was later revised.
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November 3, 1880
A new melody by Hiromori Hayashi, arranged by Franz Eckert, was first performed and became the version known today.
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1999
The Japanese government officially adopted "Kimigayo" as the national anthem, alongside the national flag.
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1999
Prime Minister Obuchi presented the government's official interpretation of the anthem's meaning to the Diet.
The lyrics of "Kimigayo" are from a 10th-century poem, making them the oldest known words used for any national anthem in the world.