To realize a stream capable of switching an interpolation method without the need for encoding the interpolation mode information IPmode.
A reference image number replacement unit RefXchg1 outputs a reference image number XchgRefNo1 resulting from rearranging the sequence of first and second reference image numbers RefNo1 and RefNo2 of a reference image number RefNo comprising the first and second reference image numbers RefNo1 and RefNo2 according to the interpolation mode information IPmode. A variable length encoder VLC1 uses the reference image number XchgRefNo1 whose sequence is rearranged for the reference image number, encodes a motion vector MV and motion compensation prediction error encoding data Vdif altogether and outputs an encoded signal Str1.
HAGAI MAKOTO
KONDO TOSHIYUKI
ABE SEISHI
