Sun-disc banner, national symbol since Meiji; Hinomaru, NisshÅki, legally defined since 1999
Japan's Diet has passed a law criminalising publicly damaging or defacing the Hinomaru flag to prevent discomfort and protect national symbols. Violators face up to two years in prison or a 200,000 yen fine. The measure is championed by Prime Minister Takaichi but faces constitutional criticism over free speech concerns.