Flag of Manchukuo

According to the Document of the Explanation of National Flag issued by state council of Manchukuo on 24 February 1933, the colours on the flag represent the four directions and center.[2] The Study of Manchukuo National Flag published by state council of Manchukuo later also gave a representative based on Wu Xing.[3]

• Yellow represents the center, symbolizes the rule of emperor of four directions and virtue of Ren in Confucianism, also Earth in Five Elements.
• Red represents the South, symbolises passion and courage, also Fire in Five Elements.
• Blue represents the East, symbolises youthfulness and holiness, also Wood in Five Elements.
• White represents the West, symbolises purity and justice, also Gold in Five Elements.
• Black represents the North, symbolises will and determination, also Water in Five Elements.[4]

The colours also represent the five major peoples in Manchukuo:

• Yellow represents the Manchu people.
• Red represents the Han Chinese
• Blue represents the Mongol people.
• White represents the Hui people.
• Black represents the Tibetan people.

Manchukuo naval rank flags are similar in design to those of Soviet Navy but retained Manchukuo national colours.

• Imperial Seal of Manchukuo
• List of Chinese flags

• Flags of the World – Manchukuo (Japanese Puppet State in China)