The swastika done flat (not angled like in Nazi flag) and pointing counter clockwise is called a "manji" in japanese. Literally 卍 = manji, that is how it's pronounced. It is used on maps to denote Buddhist temples.
That symbol itself is very common in Buddhist art, you look at old pots or temple decorations and you will likely see that symbol repeated everywhere. It's also common in Hinduism and many other religions and cultures.
I find it really sad that it is almost always seen as the swastika, of the NAZI's, and demonised so much, since it's such a cool symbol
. I'd like to put a big one up at my tree but I know people will only think it means NAZI's.
