This article explores the meaning and history of the Chinese word for Japan, 日本 (Rìběn), which translates literally to "sun origin" or "origin of the sun". It has been in use since at least the 5th century CE when it was used in literature written by Confucian scholars from China and continues to be used today. The pronunciation should be spoken with an even tone and stress placed on each syllable equally. There are also several variations of this term that have been used over time but these are now rarely encountered due to their outdated or derogatory connotations.