Imperial Regalia of Japan

The Imperial Regalia of Japan are three sacred objects—a mirror, sword, and jewel—associated with the imperial house and the legitimacy of the emperor.

Amaterasu: The Japanese sun deity and mythic ancestress of the imperial line. The regalia’s sacred origin story begins when Amaterasu entrusts them to her descendants.
Yata no Kagami: The sacred mirror associated with Amaterasu and kept at Ise Grand Shrine. It is the mirror in the imperial triad and symbolizes truth and divine presence.
Kojiki: An 8th-century Japanese chronicle containing myths, genealogies, and accounts of early rulers. It preserves a major account of the divine descent associated with the regalia.
Sokui no rei: The formal enthronement ceremony held after Japan’s emperor succeeds to the throne. It includes the presentation of the regalia as a sign of succession.
National Treasures of Japan: A designation for cultural properties officially recognized as especially valuable in Japan. Unlike publicly documented treasures, the regalia are not available for ordinary inspection.
Shinto: Japan’s indigenous religious tradition, centered on kami and ritual practice. Shinto mythology and shrine rites give the objects their sacred character.
Kusanagi no Tsurugi: The sacred sword associated with the storm deity Susanoo and kept at Atsuta Shrine. It is the sword in the triad, linked to the myth of the eight-headed serpent.
Nihon Shoki: An 8th-century chronicle of Japan’s origins and early political history. Its parallel mythic narratives help frame the regalia’s place in imperial tradition.
Daijōsai: A major Shinto rite performed by a newly enthroned Japanese emperor. This separate accession rite renews the emperor’s ritual relationship with the deities.
Ise Shrine Shikinen Sengū: The rebuilding of Ise Grand Shrine’s principal buildings on a twenty-year cycle. The mirror’s shrine setting is periodically reconstructed, while the sacred object remains unseen.

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