Amaterasu, the Shinto sun goddess of Japan, is represented by several sacred objects and symbols, including:
The rising sun
The emblem of the rising sun on the Japanese flag represents Amaterasu as the guardian of the Japanese people.
Mirrors
Amaterasu is associated with mirrors, which are one of her sacred symbols. During Golden Week in Japan, it's a tradition to open windows and curtains to let in the light, then reflect it throughout the home with a hand mirror.
Other objects
Other sacred objects that symbolize Amaterasu's authority over the Japanese people include a beaded necklace and a sword. The sword is still in the collection of the Japanese Imperial Family today.
Amaterasu is also associated with fertility, goldfish, and the color gold. She is said to grant nourishment to the people by bestowing her light and energy upon the world, and is also known as the Goddess of Divine Justice. However, if she is angry, such as when she retreated to a cave after an argument with her brother Susanoo, the world is left in darkness.
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