Medals Database > By Country > Japan

The 1931-34 China Incident War Medal

The China Incident Medal (Sina jihen jugun kisho) medal was created by Imperial Edit No. 496 on July 27, 1939 and awarded for service in China at any time from the 12th through the 20th years of the Shōwa period — Shōwa 12-20 (1937–1945). The decoration was abolished in 1946 by government ordinance No. 177.

Although the Japanese government still uses “China Incident” in formal documents, media in Japan often paraphrase it with other expressions like Japan-China Incident (日華事変 Nikka jihen) or (日支事変 Nisshi jihen). The word Shina is now construed by China as a derogatory term.

The Military Medal of Honor (or 従軍記章 jugun kisho in Japanese) was a military decoration for meritorious service to the Empire of Japan, formerly awarded to all military personnel who participated in battles in a war and effectively abolished during the Allied Occupation of Japan in the post-war years (1945–1951).

The plausible re-institution of a modern equivalent was made unlikely by the adoption of Japan’s post-war Constitution which disavows the right of the state to engage in aggressive war.

More Medals from Japan

From the prestigious Order of the Rising Sun, symbolizing outstanding civil and military merit, to the revered Order of the Sacred Treasure, awarded for exceptional service and contributions to the nation, each medal here encapsulates the spirit of Japanese tradition and valor. Explore this selection to uncover a diverse array of honors bestowed upon individuals for their dedication, courage, and service to Japan.

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Further Reading About Japanese History

If you are interested in delving deeper into Japan’s military history and the nation’s medals, there is a wide range of books available that offer valuable insights and comprehensive accounts. These books shed light on Japan’s military development, its involvement in significant conflicts, and the evolution of its military strategies. Here are a few recommended titles focusing on Japan’s military history: