Nihon and Nippon. The Japanese name for Japan, 日本, can be pronounced either Nihon or Nippon. Both readings come from the on'yomi.

Is Japan called Nihon or Nippon?

Historians say the Japanese called their country Yamato in its early history, and they began using Nippon around the seventh century. Nippon and Nihon are used interchangeably as the country's name.

Why do people say Nippon instead of Nihon?

“Nippon” came first A long time ago Japan used to be known as “Wa” or “Yamato” and used the kanji 倭. ... Around the latter half of the 7th century the official reading of 日本 changed to either “Nippon” or “Jippon.” It's believed that the pronunciation of “Nihon” came as a nickname in the Kanto region during the Edo period.