Medals of Honor (Japan)

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Since the late 19th Century, the Government of Japan has issued six different types of Medals of Honor (褒章 hosho) to individuals for achievements in various fields.

The Medals of Honor were established on December 7, 1881, and were first awarded the following year. Several expansions and amendments have been made since then. The medal design for all six types are the same, bearing the words 褒章 on a gilt central disc surrounded by a silver ring of cherry blossoms on the obverse; only the colors of the ribbon differ.

The Medals of Honor are awarded twice each year, on April 29 (the birthday of Showa Emperor) and November 3 (the birthday of Meiji Emperor). About 800 individuals receive these medals on each occasion.

1 Medal with Red Ribbon
2 Medal with Green Ribbon
3 Medal with Yellow Ribbon
4 Medal with Purple Ribbon
5 Medal with Blue Ribbon
6 Medal with Dark Blue Ribbon
7 See also
8 External link

[edit] Medal with Red Ribbon

First awarded in 1882. Awarded to individuals who have risked their own lives to save the lives of others. In 2005 a 15-year-old youth was awarded the medal for saving lives from a submerged motor vehicle, becoming the medal's youngest recipient ever.

[edit] Medal with Green Ribbon

First awarded in 1882. Originally awarded to "children, grandchildren, wives and servants for remarkable acts of piety". Changed social values after World War II had resulted in the conferrment of this medal being suspended from 1947 onwards; however in 2003 it was revived as an award to morally remarkable individuals who have actively taken part in serving the society.

[edit] Medal with Yellow Ribbon

First awarded in 1887; revived in 1955. Awarded to individuals who, through their diligence and perseverance while engaging in their professional activities, became public role models.

[edit] Medal with Purple Ribbon

First awarded in 1955. Awarded to individuals who have contributed to academic and artistic developments, improvements and accomplishments. It is also awarded to Olympic Games medallists.