October - Japanese Flower Calendar
Chrysanthemum Kiku
In October Japan is full of the sight and smell of chrysanthemums, originating in China the Chrysanthemum was introduced to Japan in the 7th century where it was later adopted by the Imperial family to become the Imperial flower of Japan. It is used as the emblem of the Imperial Court it stands for immortality symbolising peace, nobleness and long life. The motif of the Chrysanthemum is displayed on all royal buildings, Shogan palaces, as decoration on swords and banners and all documents connected to the royal family. Similar to our OBE awards the Japanese have Chrysanthemum awards, to receive one of these is a very great honour and they are presented by the Emperor at huge formal ceremonies in the royal palace in Tokyo.
This is a special flower of great importance to the Japanese culture, appearing in paintings and literature, even the growing of chrysanthemums is considered an art form. During the big festival for the Chrysanthemum,Kiku Matsuri,the whole of Japan joins in with glorious blooms decorating everywhere from temples to department stores and parks to flower pots.
Haiku for Chrysanthemum
At Nara
The smell ofchrysanthemums
The ancient images of Buddha
Basho
