The Nihon Shoki, also known as the Chronicles of Japan, is one of the oldest historical texts in Japan, completed in 720 AD. It was commissioned by the imperial court to document the history and mythology of the Japanese people. The text covers events from the creation of the world to the early 8th century, blending history with legends about gods and emperors, including figures like Emperor Jimmu. Written in classical Chinese, the Nihon Shoki serves as a crucial source for understanding Japan's early history and culture. It is divided into multiple volumes, detailing the reigns of various emperors and significant events, making it an essential reference for historians studying Japanese history and Shinto beliefs.