Japan history is a tapestry of vibrant culture, traditions, and pivotal moments that have shaped the nation into what it is today. The best way to learn how Japan developed into the nation it is today is through authentic photographs that capture the essence of the preceeding eras. Whether it’s archive images of the the last samurais or the latest photos from the Tokyo Olympics, these photographs provide a window into Japan’s past, present, and future.
In this article, we will take you through the most pivotal moments in Japan history. Starting from the Meiji period and travelling up to present-day Reiwa era, we will explore the most significant events of each era and how they impacted Japan’s development and culture.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Meiji Period (1868 – 1912)
Taisho Era (1912 – 1926)
Showa Period (1926 – 1989)
Heisei Era (1989 – 2019)
Reiwa Era (2019 – )
Conclusion
Japan History: Meiji Period (1868 – 1912)
The Meiji period was a significant point in Japan history, with the restoration of imperial rule after centuries of military rule by the shogunate. This era saw Japan transform from a feudal society to a modern, industrialized nation. Here are some of the key moments of the Meiji period that had the biggest influence on Japan’s development:
1860-1900: The End of the Samurai
The Meiji period saw the end of the samurai era. This photograph captures some of the last samurai in color. It shows a group of young samurai warriors from the Satsuma clan, who were fighting for the Imperial side during the Boshin war. It represents the end of one era and the dawn of a new age.
1894-95: The First Sino-Japanese War
The First Sino-Japanese War was a significant event in Japan’s history and a turning point in the country’s relations with China. It took place from 1894 to 1895, and was fought over the control of Korea, which was seen as strategically important by both countries. Japan, which had been rapidly modernizing under the Meiji Restoration, emerged victorious after a series of naval and land battles. The war illustrated Japan’s rise as a major power in East Asia, and it paved the way for further territorial expansion and overseas influence. It also had lasting effects on Japan’s relationship with China, contributing to deep-seated tensions and rivalries that would eventually lead to conflict between the two countries in World War II.
This image shows the triumphal arch made in Tokyo’s Hibiya district to welcome Emperor Meiji back to the capital after the conclusion of the war.
1904-05: The Russo-Japanese War
The Russo-Japanese War took place from 1904 to 1905, and was fought between Japan and Russia over territorial disputes in Korea and Manchuria. Despite being outnumbered and outgunned, Japan’s superior military tactics and technological advancements allowed it to achieve a series of stunning victories over the Russian forces. The war ended with the signing of the Treaty of Portsmouth, which granted Japan control over Korea and Port Arthur, and established its status as a major player both internationally and in East Asia.
This photograph shows a crowd of people saying farewell to soldiers going to war and waiving Japanese flags.
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Japan History: Taisho Era (1912 – 1926)
The Taisho era was a time of rapid change and modernization in Japan history. Following the death of Emperor Meiji in 1912, his son, who was given the title of Emperor Taisho, took the throne. This was the beginning of a new era of political and social reform. The Taisho period was characterized by a growing sense of individualism and democracy, as well as the flourishing of arts and culture. It saw the rise of new political parties and labor unions, as well as the emergence of a vibrant urban culture centered around Tokyo. The period was also marked by significant challenges, including the devastating Spanish Flu pandemic of 1918-20 and the Great Kanto Earthquake of 1923.
Despite the setbacks, the Taisho period was a critical juncture in Japan’s history, paving the way for the country’s emergence as a global economic and cultural powerhouse. Here are some of the significant events of the Taisho era:
1914-1918: World War I and Hegemony in China
Allied soldiers and sailors in Vladivostok, Russia, September 1918. (Photo by Aflo Images)
The outbreak of World War I in 1914 had far-reaching implications for Japan’s foreign policy and its position in the global power structure. Japan initially joined the war on the side of the Allies, seizing German-held territories in the Pacific and sending troops to fight in the European theater. This involvement in the war helped to boost Japan’s economic and political influence in the region, as it took over Germany’s former colonies and gained control over key trade routes. However, Japan’s increasing dominance also sparked fears among other Asian nations, particularly China, which had long been struggling to assert its own sovereignty and independence. Japan’s actions in China during and after World War I, including its occupation of Manchuria and the Shandong Problem, form part of a contentious and often violent relationship between the two countries that lasted well into the 20th century.
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1918-20: Spanish Flu Pandemic
Female students wearing masks to prevent the Spanish flu, February 1919. (Photo by The Mainichi Newspapers/Aflo Images)
The Spanish Flu pandemic, which lasted from 1918 to 1920, had a devastating impact on Japan. It is estimated that over 390,000 people died in the country, with some areas experiencing mortality rates of up to 2%. The flu hit Japan at a particularly difficult time, with the country still recovering from the economic and social upheavals of World War I. The pandemic also exacerbated existing social inequalities, with poor sanitation and living conditions in urban areas contributing to the spread of the disease. Despite these challenges, Japan was ultimately able to weather the pandemic, thanks to the resilience of its people and the efforts of public health officials to contain the spread of the disease.
1923: The Great Kanto Earthquake
Devastation caused by the Great Kanto Earthquake in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, September 1, 1923. (Photo by Aflo Images)
The Great Kanto Earthquake was one of the most destructive earthquakes in Japan history. With a magnitude of 7.9, the quake struck the Kanto region on September 1, 1923, and resulted in widespread damage and loss of life. The earthquake and subsequent fires destroyed much of Tokyo and Yokohama, two of Japan’s largest cities, resulting in an estimated 140,000 deaths. The disaster also had significant social and political consequences, as the government’s response was criticized for being slow and ineffective, and rumors spread of widespread looting and violence in the quake’s aftermath. Inspite of the challenges, Japanese people came together to rebuild and recover from the disaster.
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Japan History: Showa Period (1926 – 1989)
The Showa period saw Japan’s rapid rise as a global economic power and the country’s involvement in World War II. This era is characterised by significant changes in Japan’s society, culture, and politics. Here are some of the iconic moments of the Showa era that defined Japan history:
1941: The Pacific War Starts
Japanese troops at train station, circa 1940. (Photo by Aflo Images)
On December 7, 1941, Japan launched a surprise attack on the United States’ naval base at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, marking the beginning of the Pacific War. Japan had been seeking to expand its empire and had already invaded and occupied several countries in Asia, including China, the Philippines, and French Indochina. The Pacific War saw some of the most brutal fighting of World War II, with Japan resorting to kamikaze attacks and other desperate measures in an attempt to hold off Allied forces. The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki, carried out by the United States in August 1945, led to Japan’s surrender and an end to the war.
1945: Japan Surrenders After Atomic Bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki
Aftermath of the Atomic Bombing of Hiroshima, ca. 1945. (Photo by MeijiShowa/Aflo Images)
The atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki were two of the most devastating events in human history. On August 6, 1945, the United States dropped an atomic bomb on Hiroshima, killing an estimated 140,000 people. Three days later, another atomic bomb was dropped on Nagasaki, killing around 70,000 people. The bombings forced Japan to surrender and marked the end of World War II.
1945-1952: Post-war Reconstruction
John Foster Dulles meeting with Prime minister Yoshida, June 23 1950. (Photo by Kingendai/Aflo Images)
After the end of World War II, Japan was in ruins. The country had lost millions of lives, and its infrastructure was in shambles. Japan was determined to rebuild, and with the help of the United States, it embarked on a massive post-war reconstruction effort. Prime Minister Shigeru Yoshida oversaw the rebuilding of Japan’s infrastructure, economy, and political institutions. The effort was hugely successful, and by the 1960s, Japan had become one of the world’s leading economic powers.
1956: Japan Becomes a Member of the UN
Japan joins the United Nations, December 18, 1956. (Photo by Aflo Images)
In 1956, Japan became a member of the United Nations, marking a significant moment in the country’s history. The move was seen as a recognition of Japan’s rehabilitation into international society and its status as a major economic and political power in the region and around the world.
1964: The Tokaido Shinkansen
Tokaido Shinkansen begins operation, October 1, 1964. (Photo by The Mainichi Newspapers/Aflo Images)
The Shinkansen, also known as the bullet train, was a revolutionary new form of transportation that was introduced in Japan in 1964. The first high-speed trains traveled between Tokyo and Osaka, cutting travel time between the two cities from six hours to just two and a half. The Tokaido Shinkansen was a symbol of Japan’s post-war economic success and technological innovation. It was also a major tourist attraction, with visitors from around the world coming to Japan to experience the thrill of traveling on the bullet train.
1964: Tokyo Summer Olympic Games
1964 Tokyo Olympics Opening Ceremony. (Photo by The Mainichi Newspapers/Aflo Images)
The 1964 Summer Olympics, held in Tokyo, were the first ever Olympics to be held in Asia. The games were a huge success, and Japan’s hosting of the event was taken as a symbol of the country’s post-war recovery. The Tokyo Olympics were also marked by several memorable moments, including the triumph of Ethiopian marathon runner Abebe Bikila, who won the gold medal running barefoot.
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1972: Sapporo Winter Olympic Games
1972 Sapporo Olympics, Men’s 70m jump, Podium Ceremony. (Photo by The Mainichi Newspapers/Aflo Images)
The 1972 Sapporo Winter Olympic Games were the first Winter Olympics to be held in Asia and another significant milestone for Japan. Hosting the event helped Japan showcase its modern infrastructure, efficient transportation system, and cultural heritage to the world. The event also demonstrated Japan’s ability to organize and manage large-scale international events.
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Japan History: Heisei Era (1989 – 2019)
The Heisei Era began with the ascension of Emperor Akihito to the throne, and was characterized by significant economic and social changes, including the bursting of the Japanese asset price bubble in the early 1990s and the subsequent period of economic stagnation. The Heisei Era also saw several major natural disasters, such as the Great Hanshin Earthquake in 1995 and the Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami in 2011. Despite the challenges, the Heisei Era was also marked by many positive developments, including Japan’s increasing role in the global economy and the country’s hosting of several major international events, such as the Nagano Winter Olympic Games and the FIFA World Cup, which makes it a pivotal part of Japan history.
1986-1991: Japanese Asset Price Bubble
Japanese women wearing traditional kimonos on a shopping spree at a jewelry store in Tokyo in 1990. (Photo by Fujifotos/Aflo Images)
During the 1980s, Japan experienced a period of rapid economic growth known as the “bubble economy.” The bubble was characterized by heavy spending due to soaring property and stock prices and an increase in speculative investments. However, the bubble eventually burst in the early 1990s, leading to a period of economic stagnation that lasted for more than a decade.
1995: The Great Hanshin Earthquake Hits Kobe
Aerial view of the area around Hiyoshi, Kobe, one month after the Great Hanshin Earthquake. (Photo by The Mainichi Newspapers/Aflo Images)
On January 17, 1995, the Great Hanshin Earthquake struck the port city of Kobe, causing widespread destruction and loss of life. The earthquake, which had a magnitude of 6.9, killed more than 6,000 people and injured thousands more. It also caused significant damage to infrastructure and buildings in the region.
1995: Tokyo Subway Sarin Attack
Paramedics at work at Hatchobori Station after the Sarin attack on March 20 1995. (Photo by Aflo Images)
On March 20, 1995, the Aum Shinrikyo cult carried out a terrorist attack on the Tokyo subway system using the deadly nerve gas, sarin. The attack killed 13 people and injured thousands more. The incident shocked Japan and led to increased security measures and a crackdown on the Aum Shinrikyo cult.
1997: The Kyoto Protocol
Kyoto Conference on Global Warming Prevention, December 1, 1997. (Photo by The Mainichi Newspapers/Aflo Images)
The Kyoto Protocol was an international treaty signed in 1997 aimed at reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combatting climate change. Japan was one of the first countries to ratify the protocol, which set targets for reducing emissions by industrialized countries.
1998: Nagano Winter Olympic Games
Tsugiharu Ogiwara celebrates after his jump during the Nordic Combined at the Nagano 1998 Winter Olympic Games. (Photo by Koji Aoki/Aflo Images)
The Nagano Winter Olympic Games was the second time that Japan had hosted the Winter Olympics. The games featured 72 events across 14 disciplines and Norway topped the medal table. The Nagano Games were notable for the introduction of several new events, including women’s ice hockey, and alpine snowboarding; and the reintroduction of men’s and women’s combined alpine skiing. The games had their own share of controversy, including several high-profile doping scandals and allegations of vote-buying during the bidding process, but they remain an important moment in Japan sporting history, inspiring a new generation of winter sports enthusiasts.
Browse our collection of Nagano Winter Olympic Games images here
2002: FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan
Japan team group shot during the 2002 FIFA Soccer World Cup. (Photo by Jun Tsukida/Aflo Images)
The 2002 FIFA World Cup was a joint hosting effort by South Korea and Japan. It was the first World Cup to be held in Asia and was notable for its record-breaking attendance numbers and for being the first World Cup to feature a co-hosting arrangement.
Browse our collection of FIFA World Cup Korea/Japan images here
2011: The Great East Japan Earthquake and Tsunami
Tsunami strikes a seaside town near the mouth of the Oi River in Miyako City, Iwate Prefecture. (Photo by The Mainichi Newspapers/Aflo Images)
On March 11, 2011, a massive earthquake measuring 9.0 on the Richter scale struck off the coast of northeastern Japan, triggering a tsunami that devastated the coastal region. The disaster killed more than 15,000 people and caused widespread damage to infrastructure and buildings. It also led to a nuclear disaster at the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant.
Japan History: Reiwa Era (2019 – )
The Reiwa Era began in 2019 with the ascension of Emperor Naruhito to the throne. During this short period, Japan has already witnessed several significant events that will undoubtedly influence its future. Here are some of the most important moments in modern Japan history:
2019: Naruhito Ascends the Imperial Throne
Emperor Naruhito enthronement ceremony, November 22 2019. (Photo by The Mainichi Newspapers/Aflo Images)
On May 1, 2019, Emperor Akihito abdicated the Chrysanthemum Throne, and his son, Naruhito, became the new emperor of Japan. This marked the end of the Heisei Era and the beginning of the Reiwa Era.
The coronation ceremony of Emperor Naruhito took place on October 22, 2019, at the Imperial Palace in Tokyo. It was attended by various world leaders, including Prince Charles of the United Kingdom, King Willem-Alexander of the Netherlands, and King Felipe VI of Spain.
The ceremony was a blend of ancient and modern Japanese traditions. The new emperor was presented with the Imperial Regalia, consisting of a sword, a mirror, and a jewel, which are said to have been passed down from the sun goddess Amaterasu. The Imperial Regalia is a symbol of the emperor’s legitimacy and authority.
2020: The COVID-19 Pandemic
Tokyo Tower is lit up in blue to show gratitude and support for medical personnel, April 29, 2020. (Photo by Aflo Images)
The year 2020 will be remembered as the year COVID-19 struck Japan. Despite its island location Japan was not immune to the effects of the pandemic, and the government implemented various measures to curb its spread.
One of the most iconic photographs of the pandemic in Japan is the Tokyo Tower illuminated in the colors of the rainbow. The tower was lit up in this way to show support for the healthcare workers and essential personnel who were working tirelessly to fight the spread of the virus.
2021: Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games
2020 Tokyo Olympics Opening Ceremony. (Photo by Naoki Nishimura/Aflo Images)
After being postponed in 2020 due to the pandemic, the Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games finally took place in the summer of 2021. Due to the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic the Games were held almost entirely without spectators.
The opening ceremony showcased Japan’s rich culture and heritage, and featured various artistic performances, including the parade of nations, which saw athletes from around the world coming together to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship.
Check our coverage of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games here
2022: Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe Assassination
Former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe being transported to the hospital after getting shot. July 8, 2022. (Photo by Aflo Images)
On July 8, 2022, former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was assassinated during a campaign speech in Nara. Abe was the longest-serving prime minister in Japan’s history and played a significant role in shaping the country’s foreign policy. His assassination sent shockwaves throughout Japan and the world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Japan history is full of events that have shaped the country into what it is today. Through authentic photographs, we are able to catch a glimpse of the past and learn from the experiences of our predecessors. From the Meiji Period to the Reiwa Era, Japan has undergone immense changes and faced significant challenges, yet it has always emerged resilient and determined. By studying these events in Japan history, we can gain a greater appreciation for the country’s culture, people, and values.
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