Ōmihikari



Ōmihikari (Chiseian Yashiman: 大神光, Great Divine Light) is the of Chisei, adopted in 1921.

The melody was composed in 1813 by Kawashima Sanako, chief musician of the Royal Court, to celebrate the coronation of Grand King Tenantei. At the time, Chisei had never had any official anthem or national hymn, and a variety of traditional courtly songs were utilized in official state ceremonies. Kawashima's composition, influenced both by older royal traditions and modern marches, proved well-liked by both the new Daiō and his council, and was subsequently played during the annual Royal birthday procession through the central boulevard of Eito. Here it was again well-received.

As a result of the song's growing popularity, in 1819 a set of lyrics were written for it by one of Kawashima's assistants, Sinwuan Shun'en, based loosely on a religious devotional poem from the Furuho, a compilation of Chiseian classical-era poetry. He presented his work to his master, who was impressed and subsequently exhibited the combined melody and poem before the King, who also approved. Consequently, in 1820 a Royal Edict was passed, formally declaring Ōmihikari as a royal anthem to be performed at official functions. A parliamentary act passed in 1921 confirmed the edict, and made provisions for the distribution of copies of the lyrics and melody for use in diplomatic ceremonies overseas.