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Encyclopedia of Japan
Kamon Symbols of Japan
Brief Overview of Japanese family Crest "Kamon"
Imperial Symbol of Yasukuni Shrine
Japanese Unique Emblem System
The term "Kamon" refers to a crest used in Japan to indicate one's origins; that is, one's family lineage, blood line, ancestry and status from ancient times. It is also referred to simply as “Mondokoro” or “Mon”. It is said that there are more than 20,000 distinct individual Kamon in Japan. Kamon are often referred to as Family Crests which are European heraldic device similar to the Kamon in function, but it is different in many ways. Except for European heraldic device, none of the countries have similar traditional heraldic device system which identifies family or clan. Kamon is a unique culture and tradition you can find only in Japan.
Spread of use of Kamon among Samurai and the Nobility
It can be said that Kamon is an example of Japan's own culture which has been in use up to the present day. A Kamon was created to serve as an unique emblem that represented a family's identity, clearly revealing the family name of its owner. Later, Buke (samurai warriors) and Kuge (the nobility) made use of Kamon, which are classified into some groups according to blood line or historical origin. Each group consists of representative Kamon and their variations. Kamon spread widely and were used on even graves, furniture, and ships. It was natural for Kamon to be placed on weapons like Samurai Sword (Katana) and Samurai armor (Kacchu). However, although there were no limitations placed upon usage, freely using other family's Kamon caused friction or conflict. Especially using Kamon of a higher class, such as Daimyo (Japanese feudal lord) or Shogun (general) created more friction. Hence, there was an unspoken rule to avoid using the Kamon that is already used by high class clan or family as much as possible.
Kamon became the symbol of Japanese Samurai
Kamon and armor of three warlordsThe origin of Kamon goes far back to the latter part of Heian Period. Around the end of Heian Period, Kuge (the noblity) such as; Sanesue SAIONJI and Saneyoshi TOKUDAIJI, began placing their own Mon on their oxcarts and walked around Streets, showing off their Mon. Afterwards, Kamon became popular among Kuge and various Kamon were created. The Kamon of Buke (Samurai warriors) were created later than those of Kuge at the end of the Heian Period, when conflict between Heiji-clan and Genji-clan became more violent. It is considered to have originated from the fact that Samurai used their original designs on Hatamaku (samurai flag) or Manmaku (samurai curtains) to advertise their achievements or to show off. It seems that in the middle of Kamakura Period almost all samurai displayed Kamon and this became an established custom among samurai class.
Transitional Expansion From Samurai Army Standard to Common Emblem of Japan
During the peaceful, tranquil, rather uneventful, Edo Period, there were few hard battles fought among samurai so, the former practical role of Kamon, such as; distinguishing friend from foe in battle, had changed to be a kind of symbol of authority. Japan was a hierarchical society of samurai, farmers, artisans, and merchants during the Edo period, and Kamon were used as a means of indicating the social status of your family to others and ascertaining the social standing and lineage of others, enabling you and your family to dress accordingly. In addition, Kamon were possessed and used by common people as well. This was in stark contrast to European countries, where only aristocrats could use a crest. Farmers, tradesmen, craftsmen, and even entertainers like Rakugo story tellers, actors, and Yujo (prostitute) used Kamon. At the end of the Edo Period, Kamon designs were reputed highly and used for pictures of Japonism in art nouveau in Europe. In addition, from an aesthetic aspect, Japanese Kamon are well known abroad because of the symbolic design and simple structure, and is often used in various designs.
Kamon of Famous Feudal Warlords
Famous "Kamon" of Feudal Samurai Warlords in Japan
"Kamon" in Contemporary Japanese Society
wheel of a car with Kamon of Mitsubishi
Every Japanese Have Own "Kamon"
Virtually all modern Japanese families have their own "Kamon" crest. On occasions when the use of a Kamon is required, one can try to look up their families in the temple or shrine registries of their ancestral hometown or consult one of the many genealogical publications available. Also, many websites offer Kamon lookup services.
You Can Still Find "Kamon" Everywhere In Japan
Kamon are seen widely on stores and shops engaged in traditional crafts and specialties. They are favored by sushi restaurants, which often incorporate a Kamon into their logos. Also, many companies such as "Mitsubishi" have their company logo originated from Kamon. Kamon designs can even be seen on the ceramic roof tiles of older houses. Kamon designs frequently decorate sake, tofu and other packaging for food products to lend them an air of elegance, refinement and tradition.The paulownia Kamon appears on the obverse side of the 500 yen coin, and Imperial Kamon appears on Japanese Passport.
Japanese Passport
"Kamon" Shows One's Honor and Pride
Kamon add formality to a kimono, which is the Japanese Traditional Cloth. A kimono may have one, three or five Kamon. The Kamon themselves can be either formal or informal, depending on the formality of the kimono. Very formal kimono display more Kamon, frequently in a manner that makes them more conspicuous. In the dress of the high class people, the Kamon could be found on both sides of the chest, on each sleeve, and in the middle of the back.
History of "Kamon" Symbols in Japan
History
Heian and Kamakura Periods
The origin of Kamon goes far back to the latter part of Heian Period. Since the Nara Period, when Shotokutaishi (Prince Shotoku) lived, various designs had decorated furniture and dishes which later were not only for artistic quality, but also to distinguish the property of Kuge who served the Imperial court. Around the end of Heian Period, Kuge such as; Sanesue SAIONJI (西園寺実季) and Saneyoshi TOKUDAIJI, began placing their own Mon on their oxcarts and walked around Miyako-oji Street (都大路), showing off their Mon. This theory on the origin of Kamon is considered to be the most prevalent. Hakuseki ARAI wrote in his book that the Mon used in 'Kinugasa (蓋)' was the origin of Kamon, however, others claim that this was just heresy and the true origin remains inconclusive.
Afterwards, Kamon became popular among Kuge and various Kamon were created. For example, Sanesue SAIONJI used 'Saya-e,' Saneyoshi TOKUDAIJI used 'Mokko-mon' and the Sugawara and other clans used glitzy Kamon like Ume-mon. There was a strong sense of color in the design, but by the Kamakura period the Kamon had gradually developed and evolved to take on the more traditional role and connotations of Kamon and served as proof of ownership.
The Kamon of Buke were created later than those of Kuge at the end of the Heian Period, when conflict between Gempei (TAIRA-MINAMOTO) became more violent. It is considered to have originated from the fact that Buke used their original designs on Hatamaku (旗幕) or Manmaku (curtains) to advertise their achievements or to show off. The Minamoto clan flew a white flag and the Taira clan flew a red flag on the battlefield in order to distinguish friend from foe. There were no emblems on their flags, that could be the origin of Kamon used later, but a follower, Kodama-to (児玉党), one of the Musashi-shichito (seven samurai from Musashi country), flew a flag with a 'Touchiwa' of the Gunbaiuchiwa-mon (軍配団扇紋), that was later used as Kamon of the Kodama clan. Therefore, it can be considered that Buke's Kamon were also created in the latter part of the Heian Period as well as those of Kuge, but only a few Kamon were seen then and its explosive proliferation began after the Kamakura Period. It seems that in the middle of Kamakura Period almost all samurai displayed Kamon and this became an established custom among samurai class.
During the Kamakura Period, when there were many wars raging, like the Jokyu no ran and Bunei-Koan no eki, they provide many opportunities for samurai to prove themselves in battle. To identify themselves, confirm their achievements and distinguish friend from foe, samurai decorated all manner of things with Kamon, including Manmaku, flags, Umajirushi and sword scabbards. Kamon were a kind of alternate identity so, it was increasingly used among samurai to show who they were. In addition, the increased use of Kamon was also motivated by recognizing achievements that contributed to clans they belonged to in the ancient samurai society.
While Kamon were spreading rapidly among samurai during the Kamakura Period, Kuge did not have a need to use Kamon to boast their achievements. The use of Kamon almost died out at the beginning of Muromachi Period. The idea to use crests to identify a specific clan originated from the samurai class and the status of the clan, or Myoji, originally communicated it's power and history. Therefore, Kamon of Kuge can be perceived as 'an invented tradition,' adopted by the samurai class.
Muromachi Period
During the period of the Northern and Southern Courts (Japan) the clothes, Hitatare (ancient ceremonial court robe) to which Kamon such as 'Daimon' were sewn, became popular among samurai. During the Muromachi Period, clothes with emblems were called ceremonial robes, but the idea that an emblem sewn on a ceremonial robe should have been a Kamon was not a common one. The idea is said to have begun around the Higashiyama period, the middle of Muromachi period, when clothes like 'Suo' and 'Kataginu,' developed from Daimon, were becoming fashionable. Around the same time, haori (a Japanese formal coat) was created. In addition, some families with the same Myoji had a common Kamon, but at the beginning of the Muromachi Period battles among them increased. Using the same Kamon caused confusion between friend and foe so, that the number of Kamon rapidly began to increase around this time.
At the same time Kamon in two or three colors, called 'Hyo-mon (平紋),' were popular. For example, there is a portrait of Kiyomasa KATO, a samurai who fought in Korea during the Azuchi-Momoyama period, who put s Chinese bell flower, of Hyo-mon design, on short-sleeved kimono, in Kinji-in Temple (勤持院) in Kyoto Prefecture. This design remained popular during the Edo Period, and at the time when glitzy Kamon were popular during the Genroku era, and overbearing showy people especially favored using them.
Edo Period
During the peaceful, tranquil, rather uneventful, Edo Period, there were few hard battles fought among samurai so, the former practical role of Kamon, such as; distinguishing friend from foe in battle, had changed to be a kind of symbol of authority.
Japan was a hierarchical society of samurai, farmers, artisans, and merchants during the Edo period, and Kamon were used as a means of indicating the social status of your family to others and ascertaining the social standing and lineage of others, enabling you and your family to dress accordingly.
In addition, Kamon were possessed and used by common people as well. This was in stark contrast to European countries, where only aristocrats could use a crest. Farmers, tradesmen, craftsmen, and even entertainers like Rakugo story tellers, actors, and Yujo (prostitute) used Kamon.
While common farmers, tradesmen and craftsmen could not officially use Myoji, they were not regulated concerning the use of Kamon that became to function as signs of a family or a clan. Farmers, tradesmen, and craftsmen, could not officially use Myoji so, many of them used private Myoji in the villages. This originated from the structure of the village in the Medieval times, and Jizamurai (provincial samurai in the middle ages, who engaged in agriculture during peacetime) and Otonabyakusho used Myoji. Therefore, followers, Nago and Hikan, used the same Myoji as that of their ruler, based upon their territorial connections. Kamon were handed down in each family with this Myoji and began to be used among the common people's private Myoji in recent times. Kamon does not necessarily correspond to blood line except in cases where descent is clear (especially among common people) (even if Kamon is common in a noble family, it does not mean they have common blood).
Also, during the Edo Period, the custom of including Kamon on ceremonial dress such as 'Haori' and 'Kamishimo,' became common place. During the Genroku era life gradually became more extravagant so, people without Kamon were offered the opportunity to have Kamon; for example, lower-class people favored 'Gosan no Kiri' according to the time-honored custom of Hideyoshi TOYOTOMI. Besides, common Kamon also became decorative and Kamon of samurai and common people were both designed to be glitzy and graceful. It is thought that during this period, bilaterally symmetrical and diphycercal and circled Kamon began to increase.
At the end of the Edo Period, Kamon designs were reputed highly and used for pictures of Japonism in art nouveau in Europe.
After Meiji Period
During the Meiji Period, although Western culture was introduced, western clothing did not rapidly become widespread except for among the higher class, and common people instead began to increasingly use Kamon for example, on Mompuku (clothing decorated with one's family crest) and tombstones, thanks for the abolishment of the caste system. They were also often used as a symbol of nationalism or family. For example, Kamon were shaped to order on the grip of Gunto (saber) by silversmiths. After defeat in World War II, social pressure, which peaked during the war, was denied as 'militaristic' and 'feudalistic,' and Kamon was seen as one of the fostering symbols. Accordingly, with the increasing interest in Western culture, people had seldom put on Mompuku and as a result have become less familiar with Kamon. However, almost all families have more than one Kamon even today, which have been used on ceremonial occasions. Moreover, from an aesthetic aspect, Japanese Kamon are well known abroad because of the symbolic design and simple structure, and is often used in various designs.
Various Kamon can be seen in the Battle of Sekigahara
Various Kamon can be seen in the Battle of Sekigahara
Representative Japanese "Kamon" Crests
Official "Kamon" Crests
Imperial Crest
Imperial Crest
Royal Akishinonomiya
Royal Akishinonomiya
Royal Hitachinomiya
Royal Hitachinomiya
Royal Mikasanomiya
Royal Mikasanomiya
Royal Katsuranomiya
Royal Katsuranomiya
Royal Takamadonomiya
Royal Takamadonomiya
Royal Chichibunomiya
Royal Chichibunomiya
Royal Takamatsumiya
Royal Takamatsunomiya
Police Crest
Kyokujitsu Sho
Fire Department Crest
Shoubou Shou
Government Crest
Goshichi Giri
Other "Kamon" Crests
Aoi no Maru
Aoi no maru
Aoi Giri
Aoi Giri
Aoi Cho
Aoi Cho
Kageshiriawase Mitsuaoi
Kageshiriawase Mitsuaoi
Migibanare Tachiaoi
Migibanare Tachiaoi
Echizen Gokan Mitsuaoi
Echizen Gokan Mitsuaoi
Echizen Mitsuaoi
Echizen Mitsuaoi
Hana Aoi Giri
Hana Aoi Giri
Hanatsuki Wari Aoi
Hanatsuki Wari Aoi
Hanatsuki Itsutsu Aoi
Hanatsuki Itsutsu Aoi
Hanatsuki Mitsu Aoi
Hanatsuki Mitsu Aoi
Hanatsuki Mitsuwari Aoi
Hanatsuki Mitsuwari Aoi
Hanatsuki Yotsubishi Aoi
Hanatsuki Yotsubishi Aoi
Hanatsuki Oi Aoi
Hanatsuki Oi Aoi
Hanatsuki Futaba Aoi
Hanatsuki Futaba Aoi
Hanatsuki Daki Aoi
Hanatsuki Daki Aoi
Aizu Mitsu Aoi
Aizu Mitsu Aoi
Hiraki Kamoaoi
Hiraki Kamoaoi
Wari Aoi
Wari Aoi
Waritsuru Aoibishi
Waritsuru Aoibishi
Maru ni Hitotsu Aoi
Maru ni Hitotsu Aoi
Maru ni Ken Hutatsu Aoi
Maru ni Ken Hutatsu Aoi
Maru ni Mitsu Aoi
Maru ni Mitsu Aoi<
Maru ni Mitsuura Aoi
Maru ni Mitsuura Aoi
Maru Shiriawase Mitsuaoi
Maru ni Shiriawase Mitsuaoi
Maru Mitsukage Mitsuaoi
Maru ni Mitsukage Mitsuaoi
Maru Kawaribana Mitsuaoi
Maru ni Kawaribana Mitsuaoi
Kawarimukou Hanabishi
Maru ni Kawarimukou Hanabishi
Kishu Mitsuaoi
Kishu Mitsuaoi
Ken Mitsubishi
Ken Mitsubishi
Ken Itsutsubishi
Ken Itsutsubishi
Itsutsu Aoi
Itsutsu Aoi
Itsutsu Ura Aoi
Itsutsu Ura Aoi
Mukou Hanabishi
Mukou Hanabishi
Takasu Mitsuaoi
Takasu Mitsuaoi
Hosotsuru Hitotsu Aoi
Hosotsuru Hitotsu Aoi
Hosowani Yotsu Aoi
Hosowani Yotsu Aoi
Hosowani Uramitsuaoi
Hosowani Uramitsuaoi
Mitsuhanabishi no Maru
Mitsuhanabishi no Maru
Mitsuwari Aoi
Mitsuwari Aoi
Mitsuwari Tachi Aoi
Mitsuwari Tachi Aoi
Mitsukarakusa Aoi
Mitsukarakusa Aoi
Dewa Mitsuaoi
Dewa Mitsuaoi
Mizu ni Tachi Aoi
Mizu ni Tachi Aoi
Chikage Neji Aoi
Chikage Neji Aoi
Hinata Fusen Aoi
Hinata Fusen Aoi
Honda Neji Aoi
Honda Neji Aoi
Tsuruchigai Mitsuaoi
Tsuruchigai Mitsuaoi
Tachi Aoibishi
Tachi Aoibishi
Mutsu Aoi Guruma
Mutsu Aoi Guruma
Sotomitsuwari Asanoha
Sotomitsuwari Asanoha
Maruni Asanohana
Maruni Asanohana
Maruni Asanoha
Maruni Asanoha
Maruni Asanoha Giri
Maruni Asanoha Giri
Hoso Asanoha
Hoso Asanoha
Mitsuwari Asanoha
Mitsuwari Asanoha
Mitsumori Asanoha
Mitsumori Asanoha
Yukiwani Asanoha
Yukiwani Asanoha
Chigai Ashinoha
Chigai Ashinoha
Maruni Abenoseimei
Maruni Abenoseimei
Awa no Maru
Awa no Maru
Maru ni Daki Awa
Maru ni Daki Awa
Yotsu Ikari
Yotsu Ikari
Mitsu Ikari
Mitsu Ikari
Igetani Mokko
Igetani Mokko
Igetani Takedabishi
Igetani Takedabishi
Igetani Janome
Igetani Janome
Kasane Igeta
Kasane Igeta
Kumi Igeta
Kumi Igeta
Hakkaku Tsutsuni Igeta
Hakkaku Tsutsuni Igeta
Maruni Itsutsu Ishi
Maruni Itsutsu Ishi
Maruni Mitsu Ishi
Maruni Mitsu Ishi
Maruni Yotsuishi Chigai
Maruni Yotsuishi Chigai
Ishi Guruma
Ishi Guruma
Komochi Kikko Ishi
Komochi Kikko Ishi
Kokumochi Yotsu Ishi
Kokumochi Yotsu Ishi
Maruni Itagayai
Maruni Itagayai
Itsutsu Kaisen
Itsutsu Kaisen
Mitsuwari Itayagai
Mitsuwari Itayagai
Mitsu Itayagai
Mitsu Itayagai
Itobishi Nozoki Kaisen
Itobishi Nozoki Kaisen
Itaya Gaicho
Itaya Gaicho
Hitotsu Ichonomaru
Hitotsu Ichonomaru
Inyo Futatsu Icho
Inyo Futatsu Icho
Maruni Icho Kuzushi
Maruni Icho Kuzushi
Izutsuni Migitomoe
Izutsuni Migitomoe
Sumitate Izutsu Kuzushi
Sumitate Izutsu Kuzushi
Orikomi Izutsu
Orikomi Izutsu
Maruni Inoji
Maruni Inoji
Maruni Musubi Izutsu
Maruni Musubi Izutsu
Maruni Ore Izutsu
Maruni Ore Izutsu
Izutsuni Hoshi
Izutsuni Hoshi
Kasane Roppo Izutsu
Kasane Roppo Izutsu
Kawari Orikomi Izutsu
Kawari Orikomi Izutsu
Wachiga Izutsu
Wachiga Izutsu
Mitsumori Itomaki
Mitsumori Itomaki
Inazuma Bishi
Inazuma Bishi
Inazuma Giri
Inazuma Giri
Inazuma Guruma
Inazuma Guruma
Inazuma Matsukawa
Inazuma Matsukawa
Inazuma Zuru
Inazuma Zuru
Inazuma Kuzushi
Inazuma Kuzushi
Sumitate Inazuma
Sumitate Inazuma
Ryugo Inazuma
Ryugo Inazuma
Sangai Inazumabishi
Sangai Inazumabishi
Yotsuyose Inazuma
Yotsuyose Inazuma
Itsutsu Inazuma
Itsutsu Inazuma
Denko Inazuma
Denko Inazuma
Neji Inazumabishi
Neji Inazumabishi
Inari Daki Ine
Inari Daki Ine
Migioi Inebishi
Migioi Inebishi
Dakiine Kikyo
Dakiine Kikyo
Inoji Bishi
Inoji Bishi
Namini Tsuki Usagi
Namini Tsuki Usagi
Mitsu Uchiwa
Mitsu Uchiwa
Uchiwa Giri
Uchiwa Giri
Uchiwa Ume
Uchiwa Ume
maruni To Uchiwa
maruni To Uchiwa
Maruni Mitsuto Uchiwa
Maruni Mitsuto Uchiwa
Maruni Hauchiwa
Maruni Hauchiwa
Takanoha Uchiwa
Takanoha Uchiwa
Fusen Hauchiwa
Fusen Hauchiwa
Maruni Uma
Maruni Uma
Kage Umenohana
Kage Umenohana
Inyo Uraume
Inyo Uraume
Maruni Nejiume
Maruni Nejiume
Maruni Umenoji
Maruni Umenoji
Tsukiwani Tsumegataume
Tsukiwani Tsumegataume
Itsutsu Yokomi Uraume
Itsutsu Yokomi Uraume
Mitsuwari Mukoume
Mitsuwari Mukoume
Mitsumori Umenohana
Mitsumori Umenohana
Mitsuoi Edaumemaru
Mitsuoi Edaumemaru
Mitsu Uraume
Mitsu Uraume
Itowani Umenohana
Itowani Umenohana
Kokumochi Yaeume
Kokumochi Yaeume
Yukiwani Mukoume
Yukiwani Mukoume
Chukage Umekiri
Chukage Umekiri
Ume Eda Maru
Ume Eda Maru
Hishini Nozokiume
Hishini Nozokiume
Fusenryo Ume
Fusenryo Ume
Hatsuki Yokomi Ume
Hatsuki Yokomi Ume
Shochikubai
Shochikubai
Kaga Ume Bachi
Kaga Ume Bachi
Yukiwa Kage Umebachi
Yukiwa Kage Umebachi
Umewani Umebachi
Umewani Umebachi
Hise Uri
Hise Uri
Uri no Edamaru
Uri no Edamaru
Uri Giri
Uri Giri
Hanagata Goka
Hanagata Goka
Kengokani Karahana
Kengokani Karahana
Gokani Sasa
Gokani Sasa
Gokani Jurokugiku
Gokani Jurokugiku
Gokani Kocho
Gokani Kocho
Goka Kuzushi
Goka Kuzushi
Ota Uri
Ota Uri
Tokudaiji Uri
Tokudaiji Uri
Yatsuuri Yatsuhana
Yatsuuri Yatsuhana
Tsurukagoni Hana
Tsurukagoni Hana
Mitsu Uroko
Mitsu uroko
Uroko Katabari
Uroko Katabari
Mitsumori Mitsuuroko
Mitsumori Mitsuuroko
Mitsukumi Uroko
Mitsukumi Uroko
Nanatsunagi Uroko
Ryugo Inazuma
Hishini Mitsuuroko
Hishini Mitsuuroko
Iseebi no Maru
Iseebi no Maru
Chigai Ogi
Chigai Ogi
Hanabishi ni Ogi
Hanabishi ni Ogi
Maruni Gohon Ogi
Maruni Gohon Ogi
Maruni Hinomaru Ogi
Maruni Hinomaru Ogi
Maruni Fusa Ogi
Maruni Fusa Ogi
Kasane Suehiro Ogi
Kasane Suehiro Ogi
Itsutsu Neji Ogi
Itsutsu Neji Ogi
Mitsugangi Ogi Janome
Mitsugangi Ogi Janome
Mitsu Hinomaru Ogi
Mitsu Hinomaru Ogi
Hinomaru Ogi Mitsuya
Hinomaru Ogi Mitsuya
Yotsumaru Ogi
Yotsumaru Ogi
Ogi Kocho
Ogi Kocho
Oogi Otoshi
Ogi Otoshi
Ogi Wa
Ogi Wa
Nakabiraki Ogi
Nakabiraki Ogi
Watanabe Ogi
Watanabe Ogi
Futatsu Gan Giomaru
Futatsu Gan Giomaru
Shimabara Ogi
Shimabara Ogi
Happon Ogi Maru
Happon Ogi Maru
Fusen Hi Ogi
Fusen Hi Ogi
Fusamaru Hi Ogi
Fusamaru Hi Ogi
Maruni Mitsujigami
Maruni Mitsujigami
Maruni Hinomaru Jigami
Maruni Hinomaru Jigami<
Mitsuoigiku Hanijikami
Mitsuoigiku Hanijikami
Hosowani Futatsu Tomoe
Hosowani Futatsu Tomoe
Ichinoseki Obako
Ichinoseki Obako<
Hosowani Obako
Hosowani Obako
Obako
Obako
Hiraoshiki Kenhanakaku
Hiraoshiki Kenhanakaku
Oshikini Chizimi Moji
Oshikini Chizimi Moji
Oshidori
Oshidori
Onagadori
Onagadori
Chigai Omodaka
Chigai Omodaka
Hitotsu Omodaka
Hitotsu Omodaka
Kagemitsuoi Omodaka
Kagemitsuoi Omodaka
Kageyae Mukou Omosaka
Kageyae Mukou Omosaka
Kagedaki Omodaka
Kagedaki Omodaka
Itsutsu Neji Omodaka
Itsutsu Neji Omodaka
Mitsuhanadachi Omodaka
Mitsuhanadachi Omodaka
Mitsuyose Omodaka
Mitsuyose Omodaka
Mitsuomodaka no Maru
Mitsuomodaka no Maru
Mitsunaga to Omodaka
Mitsunaga to Omodaka
Yotsunaga to Omodaka
Yotsunaga to Omodaka
Yotsuoi Omodakabishi
Yotsuoi Omodakabishi
Nozoki Omodaka
Nozoki Omodaka
Jikuchigai Omodaka
Jikuchigai Omodaka
Ozeki Omodaka
Ozeki Omodaka
Omodaka Kikyo
Omodaka Kikyo
Omodaka Giri
Omodaka Giri
Omodaka Guruma
Omodaka Guruma
Omodaka no Edamaru
Omodaka no Edamaru
Gyoyo Kaede
Gyoyo Kaede
Kaede Edanmaru
Kaede Edanmaru
Itowa ni Mitsukaede
Itowa ni Mitsukaede<
Mitsuki Kaede
Mitsuki Kaede
Kaede Giri
Kaede Giri
Kawari Gyoyo Kaede
Kawari Gyoyo Kaede<
Daki Kaede
Daki Kaede
Okagami
Okagami
Kaki Edamaru
Daki Kaede
Gyoyo Kakitsubata
Gyoyo Kakitsubata
Torii Tomoe Kakine
Torii Tomoe Kakine
Kumiaikaku Mitsudomoe
Kumiaikaku Mitsudomoe
Yatsugumi Kaku
Yatsugumi Kaku
Hanagasa
Hanagasa
Mitsusando Gasa
Mitsusando Gasa
Jingu Gasa
Jingu Gasa
Kazaguruma
Kazaguruma
Abe Kajinoha
Abe Kajinoha
Gyoyo Kaji
Gyoyo Kaji
Kajinoha Giri
Kajinoha Giri
Maruni Mitsukajinoha
Maruni Mitsukajinoha
Itsutsu Kajinoha Guruma
Itsutsu Kajinoha Guruma
Mitsu Kajinoha
Mitsu Kajinoha
Yukiwani Edakaji
Yukiwani Edakaji
Fusen Kajinoha
Fusen Kajinoha
Inyo Kasane Kashiwa
Inyo Kasane Kashiwa
Inyo Daki Kashiwa
Inyo Daki Kashiwa
Maruni Nanatsu Kashiwa
Maruni Nanatsu Kashiwa
Oni Kashiwa Tomoe
Oni Kashiwa Tomoe
Kumai Kashiwa
Kumai Kashiwa
Mitsuoi Ore Kashiwa
Mitsuoi Ore Kashiwa
Yotsu Oni Kashiwa
Yotsu Oni Kashiwa
Ore Kashiwa Cho
Ore Kashiwa Cho
Oni Musubi Kashiwa
Oni Musubi Kashiwa
Chuwa Itsutsu Kashiwa
Chuwa Itsutsu Kashiwa
Kashiwa Giri
Kashiwa Giri
Ehara Kashiwa
Ehara Kashiwa
Tsurumaki Kashiwa
Tsurumaki Kashiwa
Fujisan ni Kasumi
Fujisan ni Kasumi
Marukasegi
Marukasegi
Jikuchigai Katabami
Jikuchigai Katabami
Teppokaku ni Katabami
Teppokaku ni Katabami
Mitsumori Katabami
Mitsumori Katabami
Mikatabami Guruma
Mikatabami Guruma
Fusenryogiku Katabami
Fusenryogiku Katabami
Kongo Katsuma
Kongo Katsuma
Chigai Katsuma
Chigai Katsuma
Juyo Kanawa
Juyo Kanawa
Kanawa Tsurigane
Kanawa Tsurigane
Oni Kabuto
Oni Kabuto
Kuwagata Kabuto
Kuwagata Kabuto
Hachiman Kabuto
Hachiman Kabuto
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Mamuki Kabuto
Fusen Kame
Fusen Kame
Yatagarasu
Yatagarasu
Sanba Oikari
Sanba Oikari
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Yotsukumi Chigaiki
Yotsukumi Chigaiki
Mitsuwari Nikikyo
Mitsuwari Nikikyo
Kani Kikyo
Kani Kikyo
Kamashiki Kikyo
Kamashiki Kikyo
Maruni Dainoji Kikyo
Maruni Dainoji Kikyo
Kikyo Edamaru
Kikyo Edamaru
Kikyo Tobi Cho
Kikyo Tobi Cho
Kengata Kikyo
Kengata Kikyo
Hoso Kikyo
Hoso Kikyo
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Eda Kikyo Bishi
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Dai Kikyo
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Hatsuki Kikyo Maru
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Gyoyo Kiku
Gyoyo Kiku
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Kani Giku
Kani Giku
Oni Giku
Oni Giku<
Kikuni Ichinoji
Kikuni Ichinoji
Kikukiri Hiyoku
Kikukiri Hiyoku<
Kiku Edamaru
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Kikusui
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Kiku Tobi Cho
Kiku Tobi Cho
Kayanomiya
Kayanomiya Royal Crest
Kuninomiya
Kuninomiya Royal Crest<
Yamashinanomiya
Yamashinanomiya Royal Crest
Higashikuninomiya
Higashikuninomiya Royal Crest
Takedanomiya
Takedanomiya Royal Crest
Fushiminomiya
Fushiminomiya Royal Crest
Nashimotonomiya
Nashimotonomiya Royal Crest<
Arisugawanomiya
Arisugawanomiya Royal Crest
Mitsuwariyae Onigiku
Mitsuwariyae Onigiku
Mitsuoi Kikunoha
Mitsuoi Kikunoha
Yotsuwari Kikubishi
Yotsuwari Kikubishi
Jissouin Giku
Jissouin Giku
Juu Kiku
Juu Kiku
Juni Kiku
Juni Kiku
Juroku Kiku
Juroku Kiku
Kokumochi Jinuki Kiku
Kokumochi Jinuki Kiku
Sene Giku
Sene Giku
Yaegiku
Yaegiku
Hijihari Kikusui
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Daki Hiragikiku
Daki Hiragikiku
Dakikikuno Hanikiku
Dakikikuno Hanikiku
Masegiku
Masegiku
Kikurinbo
Kikurinbo
Kikko Mitsuuroko
Kikko Mitsuuroko
Hana Gyoyo Guruma
Hana Gyoyo Guruma
Maruni Gosan Giri
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Maruni Goshichi Giri
Maruni Goshichi Giri
Gosan Hana Giri
Gosan Hana Giri<
Gomai Oni Giri
Gomai Oni Giri
Washi Giri
Washi Giri
Mitsuyose Hana Giri
Mitsuyose Hana Giri<
Kawari Kiri Kuzushi
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Takemaru ni Kiri
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Chanomi Giri
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Yamato Sakura
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Sasa Guruma
Sasa Guruma
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KageShippou Kikyo
KageShippou Kikyo
Kokonotsu Shippou
Kokonotsu Shippou
Sanada Zeni
Sanada Zeni
Taka no Maru
Taka no Maru
Inoue Takanoha
Inoue Takanoha
Gokan ni Takanoha
Gokan ni Takanoha
Takanohamaru Kikyo
Takanohamaru Kikyo
Tachibana
Tachibana
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Hana Tachibana
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Tachibana Edamaru
Tsukiwa ni Tachibana
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Kuroda Tachibana
Kuroda Tachibana
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Sangai Tachibanabishi
Fusen Tachibana
Fusen Tachibana
Izu Yoshida Cho
Izu Yoshida Cho
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Mitsuoi Ageha Cho
Mukaicho Kikyo
Mukaicho Kikyo
Ikeda Tsui Cho
Ikeda Tsui Cho
Tsukini Hoshi
Tsukini Hoshi
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Mitsuyose Orizuru
Tsuruno Maru
Tsuruno Maru
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Hatsuki Denjisou
Itakura Tomoe
Itakura Tomoe
Chiwani Torii
Chiwani Torii
Mitsumori Ndeshiko
Mitsumori Ndeshiko
Hatsuki Nadeshiko
Hatsuki Nadeshiko
Hanakaku Kuzushi
Hanakaku Kuzushi
Kyoko
Kyoko
Kyoko Hiashi
Kyoko Hiashi
Onimen Hiragi
Onimen Hiragi
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi
Kokonotsu Bishi
Kokonotsu Bishi
Takeda Bishi
Takeda Bishi
Takarabune ni Nami
Takarabune ni Nami
Houou no Maru
Houou no Maru
Tobi Houou
Tobi Houou
Shishini Botan
Shishini Botan
Maruni Chigaiya
Maruni Chigaiya
Yaguruma
Yaguruma
Ryu no Maru
Ryu no Maru
Warabi Sakura
Warabi Sakura
Must Visit Spots
Samurai Museum
Small, but incredible collections of fascinating samurai armors and weapons in the center of Tokyo metropolis.
Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura
Nikko Edomura is the best among Japan's history theme parks. The park consists of a recreated Edo Period town populated by samurai and ninja in period costumes.
The Japanese Sword Museum Tokyo
The Museum collects and preserves 152 items, including swords such as the ones designated as National Treasures, sword fittings, armor, and documents of metal working.
Edo Tokyo Museum
The museum exhibiting the samurai period of Edo (former Tokyo).
Himeji Castle
The only Japanese castle which is designated as the UNESCO world heritage.
Osaka Castle
Osaka castle is one of Japan's most famous landmarks and it has the largest area remains.
Kumamoto Castle
Kumamoto Castle displays one of the most complete castle experiences in Japan.
For More Information
Crest japan
Mon (Japanese Embrem) - Wikipedia
Japanese Kamon - Pinterest
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See Also
Castle of Japan - Breathtaking Japanese castle design of samurai age
Colors of Japan - More than 1000 Japanese traditional colors
Brands of Japan - Japan is home of many worldwide famous brands
Encyclopedia of Japan
Encyclopedia of Japan
Kamon Symbols of Japan
Brief Overview of Japanese family Crest "Kamon"
Imperial Symbol of Yasukuni Shrine
Japanese Unique Emblem System
The term "Kamon" refers to a crest used in Japan to indicate one's origins; that is, one's family lineage, blood line, ancestry and status from ancient times. It is also referred to simply as “Mondokoro” or “Mon”. It is said that there are more than 20,000 distinct individual Kamon in Japan. Kamon are often referred to as Family Crests which are European heraldic device similar to the Kamon in function, but it is different in many ways. Except for European heraldic device, none of the countries have similar traditional heraldic device system which identifies family or clan. Kamon is a unique culture and tradition you can find only in Japan.
Spread of use of Kamon among Samurai and the Nobility
It can be said that Kamon is an example of Japan's own culture which has been in use up to the present day. A Kamon was created to serve as an unique emblem that represented a family's identity, clearly revealing the family name of its owner. Later, Buke (samurai warriors) and Kuge (the nobility) made use of Kamon, which are classified into some groups according to blood line or historical origin. Each group consists of representative Kamon and their variations. Kamon spread widely and were used on even graves, furniture, and ships. It was natural for Kamon to be placed on weapons like Samurai Sword (Katana) and Samurai armor (Kacchu). However, although there were no limitations placed upon usage, freely using other family's Kamon caused friction or conflict. Especially using Kamon of a higher class, such as Daimyo (Japanese feudal lord) or Shogun (general) created more friction. Hence, there was an unspoken rule to avoid using the Kamon that is already used by high class clan or family as much as possible.
Kamon became the symbol of Japanese Samurai
Kamon and armor of three warlordsThe origin of Kamon goes far back to the latter part of Heian Period. Around the end of Heian Period, Kuge (the noblity) such as; Sanesue SAIONJI and Saneyoshi TOKUDAIJI, began placing their own Mon on their oxcarts and walked around Streets, showing off their Mon. Afterwards, Kamon became popular among Kuge and various Kamon were created. The Kamon of Buke (Samurai warriors) were created later than those of Kuge at the end of the Heian Period, when conflict between Heiji-clan and Genji-clan became more violent. It is considered to have originated from the fact that Samurai used their original designs on Hatamaku (samurai flag) or Manmaku (samurai curtains) to advertise their achievements or to show off. It seems that in the middle of Kamakura Period almost all samurai displayed Kamon and this became an established custom among samurai class.
Transitional Expansion From Samurai Army Standard to Common Emblem of Japan
During the peaceful, tranquil, rather uneventful, Edo Period, there were few hard battles fought among samurai so, the former practical role of Kamon, such as; distinguishing friend from foe in battle, had changed to be a kind of symbol of authority. Japan was a hierarchical society of samurai, farmers, artisans, and merchants during the Edo period, and Kamon were used as a means of indicating the social status of your family to others and ascertaining the social standing and lineage of others, enabling you and your family to dress accordingly. In addition, Kamon were possessed and used by common people as well. This was in stark contrast to European countries, where only aristocrats could use a crest. Farmers, tradesmen, craftsmen, and even entertainers like Rakugo story tellers, actors, and Yujo (prostitute) used Kamon. At the end of the Edo Period, Kamon designs were reputed highly and used for pictures of Japonism in art nouveau in Europe. In addition, from an aesthetic aspect, Japanese Kamon are well known abroad because of the symbolic design and simple structure, and is often used in various designs.
Kamon of Famous Feudal Warlords
Famous "Kamon" of Feudal Samurai Warlords in Japan
"Kamon" in Contemporary Japanese Society
wheel of a car with Kamon of Mitsubishi
Every Japanese Have Own "Kamon"
Virtually all modern Japanese families have their own "Kamon" crest. On occasions when the use of a Kamon is required, one can try to look up their families in the temple or shrine registries of their ancestral hometown or consult one of the many genealogical publications available. Also, many websites offer Kamon lookup services.
You Can Still Find "Kamon" Everywhere In Japan
Kamon are seen widely on stores and shops engaged in traditional crafts and specialties. They are favored by sushi restaurants, which often incorporate a Kamon into their logos. Also, many companies such as "Mitsubishi" have their company logo originated from Kamon. Kamon designs can even be seen on the ceramic roof tiles of older houses. Kamon designs frequently decorate sake, tofu and other packaging for food products to lend them an air of elegance, refinement and tradition.The paulownia Kamon appears on the obverse side of the 500 yen coin, and Imperial Kamon appears on Japanese Passport.
Japanese Passport
"Kamon" Shows One's Honor and Pride
Kamon add formality to a kimono, which is the Japanese Traditional Cloth. A kimono may have one, three or five Kamon. The Kamon themselves can be either formal or informal, depending on the formality of the kimono. Very formal kimono display more Kamon, frequently in a manner that makes them more conspicuous. In the dress of the high class people, the Kamon could be found on both sides of the chest, on each sleeve, and in the middle of the back.
History of "Kamon" Symbols in Japan
History
Heian and Kamakura Periods
The origin of Kamon goes far back to the latter part of Heian Period. Since the Nara Period, when Shotokutaishi (Prince Shotoku) lived, various designs had decorated furniture and dishes which later were not only for artistic quality, but also to distinguish the property of Kuge who served the Imperial court. Around the end of Heian Period, Kuge such as; Sanesue SAIONJI (西園寺実季) and Saneyoshi TOKUDAIJI, began placing their own Mon on their oxcarts and walked around Miyako-oji Street (都大路), showing off their Mon. This theory on the origin of Kamon is considered to be the most prevalent. Hakuseki ARAI wrote in his book that the Mon used in 'Kinugasa (蓋)' was the origin of Kamon, however, others claim that this was just heresy and the true origin remains inconclusive.
Afterwards, Kamon became popular among Kuge and various Kamon were created. For example, Sanesue SAIONJI used 'Saya-e,' Saneyoshi TOKUDAIJI used 'Mokko-mon' and the Sugawara and other clans used glitzy Kamon like Ume-mon. There was a strong sense of color in the design, but by the Kamakura period the Kamon had gradually developed and evolved to take on the more traditional role and connotations of Kamon and served as proof of ownership.
The Kamon of Buke were created later than those of Kuge at the end of the Heian Period, when conflict between Gempei (TAIRA-MINAMOTO) became more violent. It is considered to have originated from the fact that Buke used their original designs on Hatamaku (旗幕) or Manmaku (curtains) to advertise their achievements or to show off. The Minamoto clan flew a white flag and the Taira clan flew a red flag on the battlefield in order to distinguish friend from foe. There were no emblems on their flags, that could be the origin of Kamon used later, but a follower, Kodama-to (児玉党), one of the Musashi-shichito (seven samurai from Musashi country), flew a flag with a 'Touchiwa' of the Gunbaiuchiwa-mon (軍配団扇紋), that was later used as Kamon of the Kodama clan. Therefore, it can be considered that Buke's Kamon were also created in the latter part of the Heian Period as well as those of Kuge, but only a few Kamon were seen then and its explosive proliferation began after the Kamakura Period. It seems that in the middle of Kamakura Period almost all samurai displayed Kamon and this became an established custom among samurai class.
During the Kamakura Period, when there were many wars raging, like the Jokyu no ran and Bunei-Koan no eki, they provide many opportunities for samurai to prove themselves in battle. To identify themselves, confirm their achievements and distinguish friend from foe, samurai decorated all manner of things with Kamon, including Manmaku, flags, Umajirushi and sword scabbards. Kamon were a kind of alternate identity so, it was increasingly used among samurai to show who they were. In addition, the increased use of Kamon was also motivated by recognizing achievements that contributed to clans they belonged to in the ancient samurai society.
While Kamon were spreading rapidly among samurai during the Kamakura Period, Kuge did not have a need to use Kamon to boast their achievements. The use of Kamon almost died out at the beginning of Muromachi Period. The idea to use crests to identify a specific clan originated from the samurai class and the status of the clan, or Myoji, originally communicated it's power and history. Therefore, Kamon of Kuge can be perceived as 'an invented tradition,' adopted by the samurai class.
Muromachi Period
During the period of the Northern and Southern Courts (Japan) the clothes, Hitatare (ancient ceremonial court robe) to which Kamon such as 'Daimon' were sewn, became popular among samurai. During the Muromachi Period, clothes with emblems were called ceremonial robes, but the idea that an emblem sewn on a ceremonial robe should have been a Kamon was not a common one. The idea is said to have begun around the Higashiyama period, the middle of Muromachi period, when clothes like 'Suo' and 'Kataginu,' developed from Daimon, were becoming fashionable. Around the same time, haori (a Japanese formal coat) was created. In addition, some families with the same Myoji had a common Kamon, but at the beginning of the Muromachi Period battles among them increased. Using the same Kamon caused confusion between friend and foe so, that the number of Kamon rapidly began to increase around this time.
At the same time Kamon in two or three colors, called 'Hyo-mon (平紋),' were popular. For example, there is a portrait of Kiyomasa KATO, a samurai who fought in Korea during the Azuchi-Momoyama period, who put s Chinese bell flower, of Hyo-mon design, on short-sleeved kimono, in Kinji-in Temple (勤持院) in Kyoto Prefecture. This design remained popular during the Edo Period, and at the time when glitzy Kamon were popular during the Genroku era, and overbearing showy people especially favored using them.
Edo Period
During the peaceful, tranquil, rather uneventful, Edo Period, there were few hard battles fought among samurai so, the former practical role of Kamon, such as; distinguishing friend from foe in battle, had changed to be a kind of symbol of authority.
Japan was a hierarchical society of samurai, farmers, artisans, and merchants during the Edo period, and Kamon were used as a means of indicating the social status of your family to others and ascertaining the social standing and lineage of others, enabling you and your family to dress accordingly.
In addition, Kamon were possessed and used by common people as well. This was in stark contrast to European countries, where only aristocrats could use a crest. Farmers, tradesmen, craftsmen, and even entertainers like Rakugo story tellers, actors, and Yujo (prostitute) used Kamon.
While common farmers, tradesmen and craftsmen could not officially use Myoji, they were not regulated concerning the use of Kamon that became to function as signs of a family or a clan. Farmers, tradesmen, and craftsmen, could not officially use Myoji so, many of them used private Myoji in the villages. This originated from the structure of the village in the Medieval times, and Jizamurai (provincial samurai in the middle ages, who engaged in agriculture during peacetime) and Otonabyakusho used Myoji. Therefore, followers, Nago and Hikan, used the same Myoji as that of their ruler, based upon their territorial connections. Kamon were handed down in each family with this Myoji and began to be used among the common people's private Myoji in recent times. Kamon does not necessarily correspond to blood line except in cases where descent is clear (especially among common people) (even if Kamon is common in a noble family, it does not mean they have common blood).
Also, during the Edo Period, the custom of including Kamon on ceremonial dress such as 'Haori' and 'Kamishimo,' became common place. During the Genroku era life gradually became more extravagant so, people without Kamon were offered the opportunity to have Kamon; for example, lower-class people favored 'Gosan no Kiri' according to the time-honored custom of Hideyoshi TOYOTOMI. Besides, common Kamon also became decorative and Kamon of samurai and common people were both designed to be glitzy and graceful. It is thought that during this period, bilaterally symmetrical and diphycercal and circled Kamon began to increase.
At the end of the Edo Period, Kamon designs were reputed highly and used for pictures of Japonism in art nouveau in Europe.
After Meiji Period
During the Meiji Period, although Western culture was introduced, western clothing did not rapidly become widespread except for among the higher class, and common people instead began to increasingly use Kamon for example, on Mompuku (clothing decorated with one's family crest) and tombstones, thanks for the abolishment of the caste system. They were also often used as a symbol of nationalism or family. For example, Kamon were shaped to order on the grip of Gunto (saber) by silversmiths. After defeat in World War II, social pressure, which peaked during the war, was denied as 'militaristic' and 'feudalistic,' and Kamon was seen as one of the fostering symbols. Accordingly, with the increasing interest in Western culture, people had seldom put on Mompuku and as a result have become less familiar with Kamon. However, almost all families have more than one Kamon even today, which have been used on ceremonial occasions. Moreover, from an aesthetic aspect, Japanese Kamon are well known abroad because of the symbolic design and simple structure, and is often used in various designs.
Various Kamon can be seen in the Battle of Sekigahara
Various Kamon can be seen in the Battle of Sekigahara
Representative Japanese "Kamon" Crests
Official "Kamon" Crests
Imperial Crest
Imperial Crest
Royal Akishinonomiya
Royal Akishinonomiya
Royal Hitachinomiya
Royal Hitachinomiya
Royal Mikasanomiya
Royal Mikasanomiya
Royal Katsuranomiya
Royal Katsuranomiya
Royal Takamadonomiya
Royal Takamadonomiya
Royal Chichibunomiya
Royal Chichibunomiya
Royal Takamatsumiya
Royal Takamatsunomiya
Police Crest
Kyokujitsu Sho
Fire Department Crest
Shoubou Shou
Government Crest
Goshichi Giri
Other "Kamon" Crests
Aoi no Maru
Aoi no maru
Aoi Giri
Aoi Giri
Aoi Cho
Aoi Cho
Kageshiriawase Mitsuaoi
Kageshiriawase Mitsuaoi
Migibanare Tachiaoi
Migibanare Tachiaoi
Echizen Gokan Mitsuaoi
Echizen Gokan Mitsuaoi
Echizen Mitsuaoi
Echizen Mitsuaoi
Hana Aoi Giri
Hana Aoi Giri
Hanatsuki Wari Aoi
Hanatsuki Wari Aoi
Hanatsuki Itsutsu Aoi
Hanatsuki Itsutsu Aoi
Hanatsuki Mitsu Aoi
Hanatsuki Mitsu Aoi
Hanatsuki Mitsuwari Aoi
Hanatsuki Mitsuwari Aoi
Hanatsuki Yotsubishi Aoi
Hanatsuki Yotsubishi Aoi
Hanatsuki Oi Aoi
Hanatsuki Oi Aoi
Hanatsuki Futaba Aoi
Hanatsuki Futaba Aoi
Hanatsuki Daki Aoi
Hanatsuki Daki Aoi
Aizu Mitsu Aoi
Aizu Mitsu Aoi
Hiraki Kamoaoi
Hiraki Kamoaoi
Wari Aoi
Wari Aoi
Waritsuru Aoibishi
Waritsuru Aoibishi
Maru ni Hitotsu Aoi
Maru ni Hitotsu Aoi
Maru ni Ken Hutatsu Aoi
Maru ni Ken Hutatsu Aoi
Maru ni Mitsu Aoi
Maru ni Mitsu Aoi<
Maru ni Mitsuura Aoi
Maru ni Mitsuura Aoi
Maru Shiriawase Mitsuaoi
Maru ni Shiriawase Mitsuaoi
Maru Mitsukage Mitsuaoi
Maru ni Mitsukage Mitsuaoi
Maru Kawaribana Mitsuaoi
Maru ni Kawaribana Mitsuaoi
Kawarimukou Hanabishi
Maru ni Kawarimukou Hanabishi
Kishu Mitsuaoi
Kishu Mitsuaoi
Ken Mitsubishi
Ken Mitsubishi
Ken Itsutsubishi
Ken Itsutsubishi
Itsutsu Aoi
Itsutsu Aoi
Itsutsu Ura Aoi
Itsutsu Ura Aoi
Mukou Hanabishi
Mukou Hanabishi
Takasu Mitsuaoi
Takasu Mitsuaoi
Hosotsuru Hitotsu Aoi
Hosotsuru Hitotsu Aoi
Hosowani Yotsu Aoi
Hosowani Yotsu Aoi
Hosowani Uramitsuaoi
Hosowani Uramitsuaoi
Mitsuhanabishi no Maru
Mitsuhanabishi no Maru
Mitsuwari Aoi
Mitsuwari Aoi
Mitsuwari Tachi Aoi
Mitsuwari Tachi Aoi
Mitsukarakusa Aoi
Mitsukarakusa Aoi
Dewa Mitsuaoi
Dewa Mitsuaoi
Mizu ni Tachi Aoi
Mizu ni Tachi Aoi
Chikage Neji Aoi
Chikage Neji Aoi
Hinata Fusen Aoi
Hinata Fusen Aoi
Honda Neji Aoi
Honda Neji Aoi
Tsuruchigai Mitsuaoi
Tsuruchigai Mitsuaoi
Tachi Aoibishi
Tachi Aoibishi
Mutsu Aoi Guruma
Mutsu Aoi Guruma
Sotomitsuwari Asanoha
Sotomitsuwari Asanoha
Maruni Asanohana
Maruni Asanohana
Maruni Asanoha
Maruni Asanoha
Maruni Asanoha Giri
Maruni Asanoha Giri
Hoso Asanoha
Hoso Asanoha
Mitsuwari Asanoha
Mitsuwari Asanoha
Mitsumori Asanoha
Mitsumori Asanoha
Yukiwani Asanoha
Yukiwani Asanoha
Chigai Ashinoha
Chigai Ashinoha
Maruni Abenoseimei
Maruni Abenoseimei
Awa no Maru
Awa no Maru
Maru ni Daki Awa
Maru ni Daki Awa
Yotsu Ikari
Yotsu Ikari
Mitsu Ikari
Mitsu Ikari
Igetani Mokko
Igetani Mokko
Igetani Takedabishi
Igetani Takedabishi
Igetani Janome
Igetani Janome
Kasane Igeta
Kasane Igeta
Kumi Igeta
Kumi Igeta
Hakkaku Tsutsuni Igeta
Hakkaku Tsutsuni Igeta
Maruni Itsutsu Ishi
Maruni Itsutsu Ishi
Maruni Mitsu Ishi
Maruni Mitsu Ishi
Maruni Yotsuishi Chigai
Maruni Yotsuishi Chigai
Ishi Guruma
Ishi Guruma
Komochi Kikko Ishi
Komochi Kikko Ishi
Kokumochi Yotsu Ishi
Kokumochi Yotsu Ishi
Maruni Itagayai
Maruni Itagayai
Itsutsu Kaisen
Itsutsu Kaisen
Mitsuwari Itayagai
Mitsuwari Itayagai
Mitsu Itayagai
Mitsu Itayagai
Itobishi Nozoki Kaisen
Itobishi Nozoki Kaisen
Itaya Gaicho
Itaya Gaicho
Hitotsu Ichonomaru
Hitotsu Ichonomaru
Inyo Futatsu Icho
Inyo Futatsu Icho
Maruni Icho Kuzushi
Maruni Icho Kuzushi
Izutsuni Migitomoe
Izutsuni Migitomoe
Sumitate Izutsu Kuzushi
Sumitate Izutsu Kuzushi
Orikomi Izutsu
Orikomi Izutsu
Maruni Inoji
Maruni Inoji
Maruni Musubi Izutsu
Maruni Musubi Izutsu
Maruni Ore Izutsu
Maruni Ore Izutsu
Izutsuni Hoshi
Izutsuni Hoshi
Kasane Roppo Izutsu
Kasane Roppo Izutsu
Kawari Orikomi Izutsu
Kawari Orikomi Izutsu
Wachiga Izutsu
Wachiga Izutsu
Mitsumori Itomaki
Mitsumori Itomaki
Inazuma Bishi
Inazuma Bishi
Inazuma Giri
Inazuma Giri
Inazuma Guruma
Inazuma Guruma
Inazuma Matsukawa
Inazuma Matsukawa
Inazuma Zuru
Inazuma Zuru
Inazuma Kuzushi
Inazuma Kuzushi
Sumitate Inazuma
Sumitate Inazuma
Ryugo Inazuma
Ryugo Inazuma
Sangai Inazumabishi
Sangai Inazumabishi
Yotsuyose Inazuma
Yotsuyose Inazuma
Itsutsu Inazuma
Itsutsu Inazuma
Denko Inazuma
Denko Inazuma
Neji Inazumabishi
Neji Inazumabishi
Inari Daki Ine
Inari Daki Ine
Migioi Inebishi
Migioi Inebishi
Dakiine Kikyo
Dakiine Kikyo
Inoji Bishi
Inoji Bishi
Namini Tsuki Usagi
Namini Tsuki Usagi
Mitsu Uchiwa
Mitsu Uchiwa
Uchiwa Giri
Uchiwa Giri
Uchiwa Ume
Uchiwa Ume
maruni To Uchiwa
maruni To Uchiwa
Maruni Mitsuto Uchiwa
Maruni Mitsuto Uchiwa
Maruni Hauchiwa
Maruni Hauchiwa
Takanoha Uchiwa
Takanoha Uchiwa
Fusen Hauchiwa
Fusen Hauchiwa
Maruni Uma
Maruni Uma
Kage Umenohana
Kage Umenohana
Inyo Uraume
Inyo Uraume
Maruni Nejiume
Maruni Nejiume
Maruni Umenoji
Maruni Umenoji
Tsukiwani Tsumegataume
Tsukiwani Tsumegataume
Itsutsu Yokomi Uraume
Itsutsu Yokomi Uraume
Mitsuwari Mukoume
Mitsuwari Mukoume
Mitsumori Umenohana
Mitsumori Umenohana
Mitsuoi Edaumemaru
Mitsuoi Edaumemaru
Mitsu Uraume
Mitsu Uraume
Itowani Umenohana
Itowani Umenohana
Kokumochi Yaeume
Kokumochi Yaeume
Yukiwani Mukoume
Yukiwani Mukoume
Chukage Umekiri
Chukage Umekiri
Ume Eda Maru
Ume Eda Maru
Hishini Nozokiume
Hishini Nozokiume
Fusenryo Ume
Fusenryo Ume
Hatsuki Yokomi Ume
Hatsuki Yokomi Ume
Shochikubai
Shochikubai
Kaga Ume Bachi
Kaga Ume Bachi
Yukiwa Kage Umebachi
Yukiwa Kage Umebachi
Umewani Umebachi
Umewani Umebachi
Hise Uri
Hise Uri
Uri no Edamaru
Uri no Edamaru
Uri Giri
Uri Giri
Hanagata Goka
Hanagata Goka
Kengokani Karahana
Kengokani Karahana
Gokani Sasa
Gokani Sasa
Gokani Jurokugiku
Gokani Jurokugiku
Gokani Kocho
Gokani Kocho
Goka Kuzushi
Goka Kuzushi
Ota Uri
Ota Uri
Tokudaiji Uri
Tokudaiji Uri
Yatsuuri Yatsuhana
Yatsuuri Yatsuhana
Tsurukagoni Hana
Tsurukagoni Hana
Mitsu Uroko
Mitsu uroko
Uroko Katabari
Uroko Katabari
Mitsumori Mitsuuroko
Mitsumori Mitsuuroko
Mitsukumi Uroko
Mitsukumi Uroko
Nanatsunagi Uroko
Ryugo Inazuma
Hishini Mitsuuroko
Hishini Mitsuuroko
Iseebi no Maru
Iseebi no Maru
Chigai Ogi
Chigai Ogi
Hanabishi ni Ogi
Hanabishi ni Ogi
Maruni Gohon Ogi
Maruni Gohon Ogi
Maruni Hinomaru Ogi
Maruni Hinomaru Ogi
Maruni Fusa Ogi
Maruni Fusa Ogi
Kasane Suehiro Ogi
Kasane Suehiro Ogi
Itsutsu Neji Ogi
Itsutsu Neji Ogi
Mitsugangi Ogi Janome
Mitsugangi Ogi Janome
Mitsu Hinomaru Ogi
Mitsu Hinomaru Ogi
Hinomaru Ogi Mitsuya
Hinomaru Ogi Mitsuya
Yotsumaru Ogi
Yotsumaru Ogi
Ogi Kocho
Ogi Kocho
Oogi Otoshi
Ogi Otoshi
Ogi Wa
Ogi Wa
Nakabiraki Ogi
Nakabiraki Ogi
Watanabe Ogi
Watanabe Ogi
Futatsu Gan Giomaru
Futatsu Gan Giomaru
Shimabara Ogi
Shimabara Ogi
Happon Ogi Maru
Happon Ogi Maru
Fusen Hi Ogi
Fusen Hi Ogi
Fusamaru Hi Ogi
Fusamaru Hi Ogi
Maruni Mitsujigami
Maruni Mitsujigami
Maruni Hinomaru Jigami
Maruni Hinomaru Jigami<
Mitsuoigiku Hanijikami
Mitsuoigiku Hanijikami
Hosowani Futatsu Tomoe
Hosowani Futatsu Tomoe
Ichinoseki Obako
Ichinoseki Obako<
Hosowani Obako
Hosowani Obako
Obako
Obako
Hiraoshiki Kenhanakaku
Hiraoshiki Kenhanakaku
Oshikini Chizimi Moji
Oshikini Chizimi Moji
Oshidori
Oshidori
Onagadori
Onagadori
Chigai Omodaka
Chigai Omodaka
Hitotsu Omodaka
Hitotsu Omodaka
Kagemitsuoi Omodaka
Kagemitsuoi Omodaka
Kageyae Mukou Omosaka
Kageyae Mukou Omosaka
Kagedaki Omodaka
Kagedaki Omodaka
Itsutsu Neji Omodaka
Itsutsu Neji Omodaka
Mitsuhanadachi Omodaka
Mitsuhanadachi Omodaka
Mitsuyose Omodaka
Mitsuyose Omodaka
Mitsuomodaka no Maru
Mitsuomodaka no Maru
Mitsunaga to Omodaka
Mitsunaga to Omodaka
Yotsunaga to Omodaka
Yotsunaga to Omodaka
Yotsuoi Omodakabishi
Yotsuoi Omodakabishi
Nozoki Omodaka
Nozoki Omodaka
Jikuchigai Omodaka
Jikuchigai Omodaka
Ozeki Omodaka
Ozeki Omodaka
Omodaka Kikyo
Omodaka Kikyo
Omodaka Giri
Omodaka Giri
Omodaka Guruma
Omodaka Guruma
Omodaka no Edamaru
Omodaka no Edamaru
Gyoyo Kaede
Gyoyo Kaede
Kaede Edanmaru
Kaede Edanmaru
Itowa ni Mitsukaede
Itowa ni Mitsukaede<
Mitsuki Kaede
Mitsuki Kaede
Kaede Giri
Kaede Giri
Kawari Gyoyo Kaede
Kawari Gyoyo Kaede<
Daki Kaede
Daki Kaede
Okagami
Okagami
Kaki Edamaru
Daki Kaede
Gyoyo Kakitsubata
Gyoyo Kakitsubata
Torii Tomoe Kakine
Torii Tomoe Kakine
Kumiaikaku Mitsudomoe
Kumiaikaku Mitsudomoe
Yatsugumi Kaku
Yatsugumi Kaku
Hanagasa
Hanagasa
Mitsusando Gasa
Mitsusando Gasa
Jingu Gasa
Jingu Gasa
Kazaguruma
Kazaguruma
Abe Kajinoha
Abe Kajinoha
Gyoyo Kaji
Gyoyo Kaji
Kajinoha Giri
Kajinoha Giri
Maruni Mitsukajinoha
Maruni Mitsukajinoha
Itsutsu Kajinoha Guruma
Itsutsu Kajinoha Guruma
Mitsu Kajinoha
Mitsu Kajinoha
Yukiwani Edakaji
Yukiwani Edakaji
Fusen Kajinoha
Fusen Kajinoha
Inyo Kasane Kashiwa
Inyo Kasane Kashiwa
Inyo Daki Kashiwa
Inyo Daki Kashiwa
Maruni Nanatsu Kashiwa
Maruni Nanatsu Kashiwa
Oni Kashiwa Tomoe
Oni Kashiwa Tomoe
Kumai Kashiwa
Kumai Kashiwa
Mitsuoi Ore Kashiwa
Mitsuoi Ore Kashiwa
Yotsu Oni Kashiwa
Yotsu Oni Kashiwa
Ore Kashiwa Cho
Ore Kashiwa Cho
Oni Musubi Kashiwa
Oni Musubi Kashiwa
Chuwa Itsutsu Kashiwa
Chuwa Itsutsu Kashiwa
Kashiwa Giri
Kashiwa Giri
Ehara Kashiwa
Ehara Kashiwa
Tsurumaki Kashiwa
Tsurumaki Kashiwa
Fujisan ni Kasumi
Fujisan ni Kasumi
Marukasegi
Marukasegi
Jikuchigai Katabami
Jikuchigai Katabami
Teppokaku ni Katabami
Teppokaku ni Katabami
Mitsumori Katabami
Mitsumori Katabami
Mikatabami Guruma
Mikatabami Guruma
Fusenryogiku Katabami
Fusenryogiku Katabami
Kongo Katsuma
Kongo Katsuma
Chigai Katsuma
Chigai Katsuma
Juyo Kanawa
Juyo Kanawa
Kanawa Tsurigane
Kanawa Tsurigane
Oni Kabuto
Oni Kabuto
Kuwagata Kabuto
Kuwagata Kabuto
Hachiman Kabuto
Hachiman Kabuto
Mamuki Kabuto
Mamuki Kabuto
Fusen Kame
Fusen Kame
Yatagarasu
Yatagarasu
Sanba Oikari
Sanba Oikari
Yotsukari Ganebishi
Yotsukari Ganebishi
Yotsukumi Chigaiki
Yotsukumi Chigaiki
Mitsuwari Nikikyo
Mitsuwari Nikikyo
Kani Kikyo
Kani Kikyo
Kamashiki Kikyo
Kamashiki Kikyo
Maruni Dainoji Kikyo
Maruni Dainoji Kikyo
Kikyo Edamaru
Kikyo Edamaru
Kikyo Tobi Cho
Kikyo Tobi Cho
Kengata Kikyo
Kengata Kikyo
Hoso Kikyo
Hoso Kikyo
Mitsuyokomi Kikyo
Mitsuyokomi Kikyo
Mitsuwari Kikyo
Mitsuwari Kikyo
Mitsuyose Kikyo
Mitsuyose Kikyo
Eda Kikyo Bishi
Eda Kikyo Bishi
Uemura Wari Kikyo
Uemura Wari Kikyo
Dai Kikyo
Dai Kikyo
Tsuru Kikyo
Tsuru Kikyo
Dakiha Kikyo
Dakiha Kikyo
Hatsuki Kikyo Maru
Hatsuki Kikyo Maru
Gyoyo Kiku
Gyoyo Kiku
Yokomigiku
Yokomigiku
Kani Giku
Kani Giku
Oni Giku
Oni Giku<
Kikuni Ichinoji
Kikuni Ichinoji
Kikukiri Hiyoku
Kikukiri Hiyoku<
Kiku Edamaru
Kiku Edamaru
Kikusui
Kikusui
Kiku Tobi Cho
Kiku Tobi Cho
Kayanomiya
Kayanomiya Royal Crest
Kuninomiya
Kuninomiya Royal Crest<
Yamashinanomiya
Yamashinanomiya Royal Crest
Higashikuninomiya
Higashikuninomiya Royal Crest
Takedanomiya
Takedanomiya Royal Crest
Fushiminomiya
Fushiminomiya Royal Crest
Nashimotonomiya
Nashimotonomiya Royal Crest<
Arisugawanomiya
Arisugawanomiya Royal Crest
Mitsuwariyae Onigiku
Mitsuwariyae Onigiku
Mitsuoi Kikunoha
Mitsuoi Kikunoha
Yotsuwari Kikubishi
Yotsuwari Kikubishi
Jissouin Giku
Jissouin Giku
Juu Kiku
Juu Kiku
Juni Kiku
Juni Kiku
Juroku Kiku
Juroku Kiku
Kokumochi Jinuki Kiku
Kokumochi Jinuki Kiku
Sene Giku
Sene Giku
Yaegiku
Yaegiku
Hijihari Kikusui
Hijihari Kikusui
Kawari Kikusui
Kawari Kikusui
Daki Hiragikiku
Daki Hiragikiku
Dakikikuno Hanikiku
Dakikikuno Hanikiku
Masegiku
Masegiku
Kikurinbo
Kikurinbo
Kikko Mitsuuroko
Kikko Mitsuuroko
Hana Gyoyo Guruma
Hana Gyoyo Guruma
Maruni Gosan Giri
Maruni Gosan Giri
Maruni Goshichi Giri
Maruni Goshichi Giri
Gosan Hana Giri
Gosan Hana Giri<
Gomai Oni Giri
Gomai Oni Giri
Washi Giri
Washi Giri
Mitsuyose Hana Giri
Mitsuyose Hana Giri<
Kawari Kiri Kuzushi
Kawari Kiri Kuzushi
Mitsu Kiri Awase
Mitsu Kiri Awase
Kawari Giri
Kawari Giri
Takemaru ni Kiri
Takemaru ni Kiri
Suhama Giri
Suhama Giri
Chanomi Giri
Chanomi Giri
Hane Giri
Hane Giri
Kutsuwa
Kutsuwa
Tsukiwa Mamekutsuwa
Tsukiwa Mamekutsuwa
Yotsuken
Yotsuken
Nadeshiko Cho
Nadeshiko Cho
Maruni Hei
Maruni Hei
Jingu Hei
Jingu Hei
Kageyama Sakura
Kageyama Sakura
Kage Yae Sakura
Kage Yae Sakura
Kokumochi Sakura
Kokumochi Sakura
Sengokuyou Sakura
Sengokuyou Sakura
Yamato Sakura
Yamato Sakura
Chukage Yama Sakura
Chukage Yama Sakura
Fusen Sakura
Fusen Sakura
Maruni Jugo Maizasa
Gomai Oni Giri
Maruni Awase Sasa
Maruni Awase Sasa
Sasa Guruma
Sasa Guruma
Shippoubishi Hanabishi
Gomai Oni Giri
KageShippou Kikyo
KageShippou Kikyo
Kokonotsu Shippou
Kokonotsu Shippou
Sanada Zeni
Sanada Zeni
Taka no Maru
Taka no Maru
Inoue Takanoha
Inoue Takanoha
Gokan ni Takanoha
Gokan ni Takanoha
Takanohamaru Kikyo
Takanohamaru Kikyo
Tachibana
Tachibana
Hana Tachibana
Hana Tachibana
Tachibana Edamaru
Tachibana Edamaru
Tsukiwa ni Tachibana
Tsukiwa ni Tachibana
Kuroda Tachibana
Kuroda Tachibana
Sangai Tachibanabishi
Sangai Tachibanabishi
Fusen Tachibana
Fusen Tachibana
Izu Yoshida Cho
Izu Yoshida Cho
Mitsuoi Ageha Cho
Mitsuoi Ageha Cho
Mukaicho Kikyo
Mukaicho Kikyo
Ikeda Tsui Cho
Ikeda Tsui Cho
Tsukini Hoshi
Tsukini Hoshi
Mitsuyose Orizuru
Mitsuyose Orizuru
Tsuruno Maru
Tsuruno Maru
Hatsuki Denjisou
Hatsuki Denjisou
Itakura Tomoe
Itakura Tomoe
Chiwani Torii
Chiwani Torii
Mitsumori Ndeshiko
Mitsumori Ndeshiko
Hatsuki Nadeshiko
Hatsuki Nadeshiko
Hanakaku Kuzushi
Hanakaku Kuzushi
Kyoko
Kyoko
Kyoko Hiashi
Kyoko Hiashi
Onimen Hiragi
Onimen Hiragi
Mitsubishi
Mitsubishi
Kokonotsu Bishi
Kokonotsu Bishi
Takeda Bishi
Takeda Bishi
Takarabune ni Nami
Takarabune ni Nami
Houou no Maru
Houou no Maru
Tobi Houou
Tobi Houou
Shishini Botan
Shishini Botan
Maruni Chigaiya
Maruni Chigaiya
Yaguruma
Yaguruma
Ryu no Maru
Ryu no Maru
Warabi Sakura
Warabi Sakura
Must Visit Spots
Samurai Museum
Small, but incredible collections of fascinating samurai armors and weapons in the center of Tokyo metropolis.
Edo Wonderland Nikko Edomura
Nikko Edomura is the best among Japan's history theme parks. The park consists of a recreated Edo Period town populated by samurai and ninja in period costumes.
The Japanese Sword Museum Tokyo
The Museum collects and preserves 152 items, including swords such as the ones designated as National Treasures, sword fittings, armor, and documents of metal working.
Edo Tokyo Museum
The museum exhibiting the samurai period of Edo (former Tokyo).
Himeji Castle
The only Japanese castle which is designated as the UNESCO world heritage.
Osaka Castle
Osaka castle is one of Japan's most famous landmarks and it has the largest area remains.
Kumamoto Castle
Kumamoto Castle displays one of the most complete castle experiences in Japan.
For More Information
Crest japan
Mon (Japanese Embrem) - Wikipedia
Japanese Kamon - Pinterest
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See Also
Castle of Japan - Breathtaking Japanese castle design of samurai age
Colors of Japan - More than 1000 Japanese traditional colors
Brands of Japan - Japan is home of many worldwide famous brands
Encyclopedia of Japan