Maruhachi Day

What Is Maruhachi Day?

August 8th is "Maruhachi Day" in Japan, established in 1996 to mark the 88th anniversary of Nagoya City's official emblem, the "maruhachi" mark, adopted in 1907.

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"
• Naming the anniversary: established the following year, 1996, marking the 88th anniversary since the emblem's 1907 adoption

The "Maruhachi" Mark, Living On in the City of Nagoya

The maruhachi mark can be spotted throughout Nagoya, on public facilities, manhole covers, roof tiles, and more, making it a familiar symbol to residents. The design carries a wish to honor the city's history while continuing to pursue new growth.

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.