What is your Kamon?

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”. Kamon is a unique culture and tradition you can find only in Japan.

Do all Japanese families have mon?

Like European heraldry, mon were initially held only by aristocratic families, and were gradually adapted by commoners. Japanese traditional formal attire generally displays the mon of the wearer. Commoners without mon often used those of their patron or the organization they belonged to.

Do Japanese families have family crest?

Japanese Family Crest – it is only for the Royal Family and the nobles in the western world, the family crest. However, in Japan, every family has its own crest which is called Kamon in Japanese. Its design is unique, sophisticated, and each has its meaning.

What is Samurai crest?

The samurai crests usually feature various flowers with strong roots (paulownia), leaves, crane, and a pine tree that represents longevity. The crest that looks like 3 swirls, mitsudomoe, is the common crest in Japan. It is used on the roof tiles of Shinto temples, on taiko drums and on some samurai armors.

Are Kamon copyrighted?

Kamon are Japanese emblems or crests, corresponding to the European heraldy tradition, and are used to specifically represent and identify a family. The (bilingual) Crest Japan site has more than 280 kamon available copyright free for download as . eps files.

Did samurai marry?

Samurai could marry daughters of fellow Samurai. Samurai were ranked from the lowest Katgi to the highest Daimyo and each category married within their own class or rank. The higher ranked Samurai could have only one wife but many ‘consorts’. The ‘Consorts’ could be lower born women.

How much is a kan?

Mass

Unit	US & Imperial
Romanised	Kanji	Approx.
Kan(me)	貫(目)	8.267 lb
Maru	丸	66.14 lb
Tan	担 or 擔	132.3 lb

What is smaller than a yen?

Bills come in 1,000 yen, 2,000 yen (very rare), 5,000 yen and 10,000 yen denominations. Coins come in 1 yen, 5 yen, 10 yen, 50 yen, 100 yen and 500 yen denominations.