Imperial crest of Japan

Imperial crest of Japan
Versions
16 Single-layered chrysanthemum
ArmigerEmperor, emperor emeritus, and inner-court member of the Imperial family
Adopted13th century (de facto)
21 October 1926 (de jure)

The Imperial crest of Japan, most commonly known in English and Japanese as the chrysanthemum crest (菊紋, kikumon) (also known by other names) is the mon, used by the emperor of Japan and members of the Imperial Family.

It is one of the national emblems of Japan and is used in a manner similar to a national coat of arms, such as on Japanese passports.

The 5-7 paulownia was historically the personal crest of the emperor, and as such has also been called an imperial crest. It was later adopted by the Japanese government, and it is largely used to represent the prime minister and Cabinet.