shows photos of Japan between the 1860s and 1930s. In 1854, Japan opened its doors to the outside world for the first time in more than 200 years. It set in motion a truly astounding transformation. As fate would have it, photography had just been invented. As the old country vanished and a new one was born, daring photographers took photos. Discover what life was like with their rare and precious photographs of old Japan.

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12/31/2026 (Thursday)

Photography in Japan 1853-1912 • Terry Bennett

Terry Bennett has been researching 19th century Japanese photography for over 25 years. In this masterpiece he tells us the story of photography in Japan, using 350 rare images. All the known photographers are introduced with details that you will have trouble finding anywhere else. THE best book about early Japanese photography.

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Tags: Unknown • Meiji • Kobe • City Views
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A view on American Hatoba as seen from Kaigandori. The sign on the building on the right says “baggage keeper.” The road surface shows multiple tire grooves of jinrikisha (rickshaws), a silent witness of how busy the pier was. For more information about American Hatoba and Kobe Harbor, see Kobe 1910s • Steam Launches.

1914 (Taisho 3) Map of Kobe: 1. Sannomiya Station (currently Motomachi Station); 2. Motomachidori; 3. Sakaemachidori; 4. Higashi Yuenchi Park; 5. Oriental Hotel; 6. Kaigandori; 7. Customs House; 8. American Hatoba.

Photographer: Unknown
Publisher: Unknown
Medium: Postcard
Image Number: 70314-0024
Quote this number when you contact us about licensing this image

Thumbnail URL: http://oldphotosjapan.com/images/111t.jpg

Posted by Kjeld Duits • 2008-07-24

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