Japanese Military Uniforms 1841-1929: From the fall of the Shogunate to the Russo-Japanese War

by Ritta Nakanishi

Overview

Experience the evolution of Japanese military history with Japanese Military Uniforms 1841-1929, an expertly crafted exploration of Japan’s transition from feudal retainers to a modern, centralized military. Featuring hundreds of vivid colour illustrations and detailed captions, this book brings to life the transformative journey of Japan’s army and navy uniforms during a pivotal era of cultural and technological change.The Meiji era marked the birth of Japan’s military as part of a centralized nation-state, but its roots can be traced back to the late Edo period, when the arrival of Commodore Perry’s black ships sparked the Bakumatsu Restoration. Drawing on years of systematic research, Ritta Nakanishi provides an overview of Japanese military uniforms from ancient times to the modern era, focusing on their dramatic transformation during the Meiji period. A prequel to the acclaimed Japanese Military Uniforms 1930-1945, this volume serves as a valuable reference for modellers, illustrators, historians, and military enthusiasts. It offers a unique perspective on how Japan’s military adapted and modernized, making it an essential resource for those interested in Japanese history, military design, or the artistry of historical uniforms. With its rich visuals and engaging analysis, Japanese Military Uniforms 1841-1929 is more than a book-it’s a gateway into the fascinating history of Japan’s military transformation.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781804517734
Publisher:	Helion and Company
Publication date:	08/31/2025
Series:	Asia@War
Pages:	88
Product dimensions:	8.30(w) x 11.70(h) x (d)

About the Author

Born in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture in 1934, Ritta Nakanishi developed a passion for art early, influenced by his adoptive father and captivated by military illustrations. He studied at Musashino Art University, graduating in 1952. After working in textile and comic illustration, he joined Gakken’s editorial department in 1962, later focusing on military illustration. His serialized 'Japanese Military Uniforms' (1972, Hobby Japan) led to acclaimed works like Japanese Military Uniforms: Bakumatsu to the Russo-Japanese War (1997, revised 2006). His final major work, The History of Japanese Armour (Vol. 1), was published in 2008 before his passing at age 74.