Supreme Orders of the Chrysanthemum

The Supreme Orders of the Chrysanthemum is the most prestigious award in Japan. The Grand Cordon of the Supreme Orders of the Chrysanthemum was established in 1876, and the Collar of the Supreme Orders of the Chrysanthemum in 1888. The order features a rising sun in the center, symbolizing the national flag, from which radiates rays of sunlight, wreathed with chrysanthemums and chrysanthemum leaves. The attachment between the medal and the ribbon is shaped into a chrysanthemum.

The collar features the two kanji characters mei and ji,indicating the imperial era of the award's establishment, in classic form and is decorated with chrysanthemums and leaves.

Note:
The Rising Sun design is said to symbolize kyokujitsutenshou(energy as powerful as the rising sun).

Collar of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum

Collar of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum

Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum

Grand Cordon of the Supreme Order of the Chrysanthemum