Osaka 1913
Japan's Green Revolution (1)
This unassuming factory in Osaka, owned by the Dai-Nippon Artificial Fertilizer Company, tells the little-known story of Japan’s green revolution. By the 1930s, Japan had doubled the output of six major staples and ranked fifth globally in per-acre fertilizer consumption.
Osaka 1929
Becoming Modern with Face Powder and Caramels
Osaka women packing cosmetics at Nakayama Taiyodo Club Cosmetics, a pioneer in scientific management, with bold marketing and cutting-edge products. Firms like this drove Japan’s modernization.
spotlight
Rare Photos of the Hiroshima Atomic Bombing
The Duits Collection holds a number of rare photos taken after the 1945 atomic bombing of Hiroshima. This article briefly explains what makes these images so special. With one exception, it is very unlikely you have seen them before.
Hiroshima
Every Day I Thought I Would Die Tomorrow
On August 6, 1945, an atomic bomb obliterated Hiroshima. About 40% of the estimated 350,000 inhabitants died before the year ended. This is the story of a 19-year-old nurse who miraculously survived.
China 1904
War, Power and Steel
A Japanese siege gun, known as an “Osaka Baby,” fires during the Russo-Japanese War of 1904–1905. War accelerated Osaka’s industrialization, driving a dramatic shift from light to heavy industry.