Anatomy of Yamato
1. Symbol of Glory
A golden, chrysanthemum-shaped shield more than six feet in diameter
protruded from the ship's bow and was visible for miles. Such
"Kikusui" crests, named for a hero and martyr of the 14th century,
appeared on only the most important ships of the Imperial
Navy—battleships, aircraft carriers, and cruisers. The only
other element of the ship painted gold was the ship's name, which
like the crest was a powerful symbol. "Yamato" is a poetic, even
mystical synonym for Japan itself.