Medals Database – Medals from Japan

Medals, Orders, & Decorations
from Japan

All Japanese Military Medals & Awards

The Japanese honor system originated in the 1870s, during the Imperial era, shortly after the Meiji Restoration, and was modeled on European honors system. The first order, the Imperial Order of Meiji was established in 1875, and was later renamed the Order of the Rising Sun. Its badge features rays of sunlight and symbolizes energy as powerful as the rising sun, in parallel with the concept of Japan as the Land of the Rising Sun, and was awarded for meritorious civil or military service by the Emperor. Bit it’s another award, The Order of the Paulownia Flowers, that ranks higher in order. It was established in 1888 and was (and still is) given to individuals with many years of outstanding accomplishments, particularly in public and political life. 

Quick jump to: Japanese Imperial Orders – Japanese Military Medals – Japanese Commemorative Medals

Japanese Medals eBook (PDF) The Complete List with Prices

Popular Japanese Medals, Orders & Decorations

Explore the most renowned and esteemed medals, orders, and decorations currently and previously bestowed by Japan. 

Japan's Highest Award

The highest award ever given to exceptionally meritorious achievements or service is The Order of the Chrysanthemum which, apart from the Imperial Family, was only awarded to only six citizens in Japan’s history. Following in rank to the Order of The Rising Sun is the Order of the Sacred Treasure, also established in 1888 and the most widely conferred Japanese order. The medal is given to those who have made distinguished achievements in research fields, business industries, health care, social work, state or local government fields, or the improvement of life for handicapped or impaired persons.

Japanese Imperial Orders

Japanese orders represent the influence of Western culture on Japan and reflect the rapid cultural and social change in the country since the late 19th century. The highest decoration awarded by the Japanese state is the The Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum, founded in 1876 by Emperor Meiji. The the lowest Japanese order is The Order of the Precious Crown, instituted by Emperor Meiji as well in 1888.

Japanese Military Medals and Badges

Although the tradition of making commemorative badges dates back to the Taisho era (1912-1926), from 1930 onward there seems to be an increase in the number of military badges and medals being made. These were awarded for many occasions and could be both military and civilian.

Further Reading About Japan

For those interested in delving deeper into Japan’s military history, there is a wide range of books available that offer valuable insights and comprehensive accounts. Here are some ideas:

Japanese commemoration Medals
and Other Awards

Hopefully, we’ll be able to see these awards being handed to many more people, as the majority of them are not given by military reasons exclusively. If this was the case, it would be a shame, as article 9 of the Japanese Constitution outlaws war as a means to settle international disputes involving the state.

This Constitution came into effect on May 3rd, 1047, right after the ending of World War II. In its text, the state formally renounces the sovereign right to belligerency and aims at an international peace based on justice and order. It also states that armed forces with war potential will not be maintained. This clause was written and imposed by the United States, although Japan has Self-Defense Forces.

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