Order of the Illustrious Dragon
Order of the Illustrious Dragon
The Order of the Illustrious Dragon was a chivalry award of the Empire of Manchuria (Manchukuo). It was created by Emperor Puyi on March 1, 1934, and the law was published on April 19, 1934. It had only one class, called the Grand Cordon.
Design and symbol: The medal is a gold, star-shaped badge with eight rays. Green enamel sits between the rays, and red jewels decorate it. In the center is a stylized Chinese dragon, the symbol of the Emperor, Puyi, with a golden cloud motif. The badge and the star look alike. The reverse side bears four Chinese characters meaning “Order of Merit Badge.” The ribbon is a blue sash with white stripes, worn over the right shoulder, with a breast star.
Recipients and duration: The order was awarded 33 times. The first induction was in 1934 and the last in 1940. It was discontinued in 1945 after the Soviet invasion of Manchuria.
Rank and status: It was equivalent to Japan’s Order of the Paulownia Flowers. In precedence, it was above the Order of the Auspicious Clouds and below the Grand Order of the Orchid Blossom. The Order is now obsolete.
This page was last edited on 3 February 2026, at 12:05 (CET).