Crossed flags emoji 🎌
A guide to the crossed flags emoji 🎌, its common meanings, and how to use it in messages.
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What the crossed flags emoji means
The crossed flags emoji 🎌 shows two flags crossed in an X shape. In Unicode it is simply called “crossed flags”, but it is widely recognised as a symbol of Japan. The design resembles two Japanese national flags, and it can appear during Japanese celebrations such as Children’s Day and sports events.
Because of this association, the emoji is commonly used to represent Japan, Japanese culture, or a festive occasion. It can also signal rivalry or competition between two sides, as the crossed flags suggest a head-to-head contest.
- Japanese celebrations and holidays
- Support for Japan or Japanese sports teams
- A symbol of competition or rivalry
- Decorative flair in festival or event messages
Although the crossed flags emoji is not an official national flag, it has become a shorthand for Japanese themes. In some contexts, it can also be used to mark an international event or a friendly match between two countries.
How people use the crossed flags emoji
In text messages and social media, the crossed flags emoji adds a celebratory or Japanese-themed touch. It can appear in posts about Japanese festivals, anime, or food, and in captions for photos taken in Japan.
It is also used in sports contexts when Japan plays, or to show support for a Japanese team.
In group chats, the crossed flags emoji can signal a Japanese-themed party or a cultural celebration. It pairs well with other Japanese emojis like 🍣, 🏯, or 🎎.
Compare crossed flags with similar emoji
| Emoji | Name | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| crossed flagsU+1F38C | Decorative symbol, often used for Japan and celebrations | |
| chequered flagU+1F3C1 | Marks the finish line in racing | |
| triangular flagU+1F6A9 | Red flag, used for warnings or alerts | |
| black flagU+1F3F4 | Often associated with protest or piracy | |
| white flagU+1F3F3 U+FE0F | Symbol of surrender or truce | |
| rainbow flagU+1F3F3 U+FE0F U+200D U+1F308 | Represents LGBTQ+ pride |
Crossed flags emoji vs similar flags
The crossed flags emoji is one of several flag symbols. Unlike country flags, which show a specific nation, 🎌 is a decorative symbol often tied to Japan. Here’s how it compares to other flag emojis you might see.
The chequered flag 🏁 marks the finish line in racing, while the triangular flag 🚩 is often used as a warning or red flag in conversations. The black flag 🏴 can symbolise protest or piracy, and the white flag 🏳️ is a universal sign of surrender.
The rainbow flag 🏳️🌈 represents LGBTQ+ pride, and the transgender flag 🏳️⚧️ represents the trans community. The pirate flag 🏴☠️ is associated with piracy and adventure. The crossed flags 🎌 stands apart because it typically refers to Japan and its celebrations rather than a general warning or movement.
See all flag emoji for the full list.
Questions people ask
What does the crossed flags emoji mean?
The crossed flags emoji 🎌 typically represents Japan or Japanese celebrations, and it can also symbolise competition or a festive occasion.
Is the crossed flags emoji Japanese?
Officially it is just called “crossed flags” in Unicode, but its design looks like two Japanese flags and it is commonly used to represent Japan.
How do you type the crossed flags emoji?
You can copy it from this page, or find it in the emoji keyboard by searching for “flag” or “crossed flags”.
What is the difference between crossed flags and the Japanese flag emoji?
The Japanese flag emoji 🇯🇵 shows the national flag of Japan, while crossed flags 🎌 is a decorative symbol often associated with Japan but not an official national flag.
When is the crossed flags emoji used?
It is used during Japanese holidays like Children’s Day, in sports matches involving Japan, or to add a Japanese cultural touch to messages.
About this guide
Written and maintained by the Emoji Directory editorial team, without ads or sponsorship. Meanings describe how the emoji is commonly used in public posts and messages, not an official definition. Names, code points, versions, keywords and translations come from the Unicode Emoji 18.0 and CLDR data; shortcodes from the gemoji project. Last reviewed . Spotted a mistake or a new usage? Tell us, or read how the directory is made.
