Emperor Jimmu

1Kamu-Yamato-Iware-Biko, known as Emperor Jimmu, was the great-grandson of Ninigi. He determined to leave Hyuga and establish his seat of power in the central lands of Yamato.

2With his elder brothers and a mighty army, he set forth eastward, journeying by sea along the coast of the Inland Sea, subduing the land as he went.

3He encountered fierce resistance from local rulers and warriors. In battle against the forces of Nagasunehiko, his elder brother was struck by an arrow and died.

4A golden kite — the Yatagarasu, the eight-span crow sent by Amaterasu — descended from heaven and perched upon the emperor's bow, blinding his enemies with its radiance.

5Guided by the divine crow through the mountains and valleys, Jimmu conquered the land of Yamato and established his palace at Kashihara, at the foot of Mount Unebi.

6There, on the first day of the first month, Emperor Jimmu ascended the throne and became the first emperor of Japan, founding the unbroken imperial line.

7He declared: 'Let us extend the capital and cover the eight corners of the world under one roof.' This became the guiding principle of the Japanese nation.