This article explores the different names used for Japan throughout its long history. The name "Japan" is believed to have originated from Chinese characters 日本, which can be read as either Nihon or Nippon. Other names used include Wa (倭) during China’s Tang Dynasty (618-907 CE) and Yamato (大和). In addition to Nihon/Nippon, other terms such as Dai Nippon (大日本) are also commonly used by Japanese people when referring to their country. Regional variations on how people refer to their own country exist within Japan itself depending on where they live or come from. The phrase “the land of the rising sun”, translated from Chinese characters 日本, is symbolic of new beginnings and opportunities each day. Over time, "Japan" has become one of most recognizable names around world due its cultural influence, economic power and technological