The Japanese Naval Ensign

[Steve]

In Tokyo last week I bought a small fabric patch with the Japanese Naval ensign (flag) on it. I had been intending to wear it on a pair of shorts (I think it looks kinda cool, and I live in Japan), but a friend saw it on my table yesterday, and commented that he'd heard it was a little bit controversial. Being a kids teacher in Japan I thought I'd better look into it (I don't want to start offending anyone!). I've found a great deal of information about the history of this flag, and the national flag, and my searching led me on to this site. I've already read with great interest the poll about whether the flag should be banned (I'll bite my tongue about some of the bitching on that thread), but it doesn't quite solve my dilema.
What I wanna know is, should I wear it?
I see no reason to ban the flag, and I have some Japanese friends who I have seen sporting the flag on handbags or jackets etc. I bought the patch from a store clearly displaying it in a Japanese temple, I see it around a lot in advertising, magazines, logos and such, and I've never heard of it being controversial until yesterday. Any advice?

 

[Mike Cash]

How much thought do the Japanese give to making fashion accessories out of the flags of other countries? Wear it if you want.

 

[TheKansaiKid]

I'd say do as you want if it offends someone maybe they are too easily offended.

 

[Mike Cash]

I'd say they have a right to be offended, but zero room to talk.

 

[Eisuke]

You can wear it if you want.