Order of the Chrysanthemum

The Grand Order of the Badge of the Chrysanthemums (大勳位菊花章), or simply the Order of the Chrysanthemum, is Japan's highest Order (decoration), established on January 4, 1888 by Emperor Meiji of Japan. It is conferred exclusively to males, preferably of royal blood, and also to elder statesmen; although technically the order has only one class, it can either be awarded with collar (or chain), or with grand cordon (or sash). Unlike its European counterparts, the order may be conferred posthumously.

The badge of the order is a four-pointed gold badge with white enamelled rays; the centre bears a red enamelled sun disc. on each of the four corners of the badge there is a yellow-enamelled chrysanthemum blossom with green enamelled chrysanthemum leaves. The badge is suspended on a yellow-enamelled chrysanthemum, either on the collar or on the grand cordon.

The star of the order is similar to the badge, but in silver, without the chrysanthemum suspension, and with an eight-pointed gold medallion (with white enamelled rays and red enamelled sun disc) placed at the centre. It is worn on the left chest.

The grand cordon of the order is red with dark blue border stripes. It is worn on the right shoulder.

See also

• Order of the Rising Sun
• Order of the Precious Crown
• Order of the Golden Kite
• Order of the Sacred Treasures
• Order of Culture