Roughly 90 out of 100 residents polled by The Japan Times in Tokyo, Osaka and Hiroshima this week said they recognize the Hinomaru flag as a national symbol, but almost 40 opposed "Kimigayo" as the national anthem.

The street interviews were done before the expected passage Monday of a bill to legally recognize the Hinomaru as Japan's national flag and "Kimigayo" as the anthem.

Respondents to the straw poll were divided in their support for the bill. Only 46 said they favored it.