Maruhachi Day
Historical AnniversariesLast updated:
What Is Maruhachi Day?
August 8th is "Maruhachi Day" in Japan. It was established by Nagoya City in 1996 in connection with the city's official emblem, the "maruhachi" mark adopted in 1907, as a commemoration of 88 years since the emblem was established.
The Origin of the "Maruhachi" Mark
The maruhachi mark, a design of the kanji for "eight" enclosed in a circle, was used as an identifying crest by the Owari Tokugawa family and was formally adopted as Nagoya's city emblem in 1907.
- Its meaning: an auspicious design in which the circle represents boundless, ever-expanding power, and the figure-eight shape represents prosperity that spreads ever wider
- Where the "eight" comes from: theories vary, including a connection to the eight districts of the Owari domain (Aichi, Kasugai, Haguri, Niwa, Nakashima, Kaito, Kaisai, and Chita), or a connection to the "ha" sound in "Owari"
- Establishing the anniversary: Nagoya City chose August 8th, a date of double eights echoing the "eight" in the emblem, and established the day in 1996, which was Heisei 8
The "Maruhachi" Mark, Living On in the City of Nagoya
The maruhachi mark can be spotted throughout Nagoya, on public facilities, manhole covers and more, making it a familiar symbol to residents. Around August 8th, "Maruhachi Day" events have been held at places such as Hisaya Odori Park and Oasis 21 in the Sakae district. Nagoya also designates the 8th of every month as "Environmental Conservation Day."
Tips for Marking This Day
- Look for buildings or manhole covers in Nagoya bearing the maruhachi mark
- Learn about the Owari Tokugawa family and the history of Nagoya
- Learn about the origin of the emblem or crest of the city you live in
- Tour Nagoya's sightseeing spots while keeping an eye out for the city's symbol
An Edo-Era Crest, Still Living On as a City Symbol Today
The maruhachi mark, once used as a crest of the Owari domain, continues to symbolize Nagoya's identity more than a century later. Let August 8th be a day to notice the history behind a familiar symbol of the city.