Nihon Shoki

The Nihon Shoki, or "Chronicles of Japan," is one of Japan's oldest historical texts, completed in the 8th century. It was commissioned by Emperor Tenmu and serves as a national history, detailing Japan's mythology, early history, and the reigns of its emperors up to the 8th century. Written in classical Chinese, it combines historical records with legends and folklore, providing insights into Japan’s cultural and political development. The Nihon Shoki is considered crucial for understanding Japan’s historical identity and has influenced literature, culture, and the study of Japanese history.