When the Hinomaru and "Kimigayo" were recognized in law in 1999, the government assured the people that they would not be forced to observe them, apparently in light of the long-standing controversy over the symbols.
However, it appears education authorities around the country have since then intensified pressures on public schools to hoist the national flag and have students and teachers stand and sing the national anthem at their annual entrance and graduation ceremonies.
In postwar Japan, the Hinomaru and "Kimigayo" -- regarded by many as symbols of Japan's militarism before and during World War II -- have long been the focus of debate.