Japanese Tail Numbers

[tatsujin_thewolf]

I apologize, but have looked and looked and can find no reference for this (unless I've just finally gone blind and dumb), but can anyone help me by explaining the rhyme and reason behind the tail numbers on Japanese aircraft? Plane number? Squadron number?

Thanks in advance.

[BLOWHARD]

I have no clue and I've been working on Zeros for several years now. If I were you, I'd ask this same question here-
J-aircraft Forums - Index
But I don't think there is any simple answer here, nothing that could be written out as a simple rule to follow.

[tatsujin_thewolf]

Appreciate the help. Thank you.