: In 1870, the Meiji government adopted it as the war flag for the Imperial Japanese Army , and in 1889, as the naval ensign for the Imperial Japanese Navy .
: Even today, it is used in daily life as a Tairyō-bata (big catch flag) by fishermen, and to celebrate milestones like childbirth or seasonal festivities. Military Adoption and Modern Status 1920x1080 Japan Rising Sun Flag HD Wallpaper">
: After a brief prohibition by Allied authorities following World War II, a modified 16-ray version was re-adopted in 1954 as the ensign for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). : In 1870, the Meiji government adopted it
The flag's formal role in the Japanese military began in the late 19th century: : In 1870