Nihongi (Chronicles of Japan)

The Nihongi, also known as the Chronicles of Japan, is one of the most important historical texts in Japanese literature. Compiled in 720 CE, this work is a comprehensive chronicle of Japan's history from its mythical origins to the end of the 7th century. The Nihongi is the second oldest book of classical Japanese history, following the Kojiki, and provides a detailed account of the early Japanese emperors, their reigns, and significant events. The text is divided into thirty volumes, covering various aspects of Japanese history, including mythology, politics, culture, and society. It begins with the Age of the Gods, detailing the creation myths and the genealogy of the gods, and progresses through the reigns of early emperors, documenting important events, battles, and diplomatic relations. William George Aston's translation, first published in 1896, remains one of the most respected English versions of the Nihongi. His work provides a comprehensive and accessible interpretation of this foundational text, making it available to a wider audience. The Nihongi offers valuable insights into the early history and culture of Japan, making it an essential resource for historians, scholars, and anyone interested in Japanese heritage.