Japanese Steam in the 1970s

Yoshi Hashida's book showcases his best shots of steam engines in Western Japan from 1971 to 1975, capturing the beauty of steam engines against different backdrops and settings.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 July 2022
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

Even though the renowned bullet train was introduced in 1964, many steam engines were still in operation in Japan before their withdrawal in 1975. These marvels of narrow gauge railway engineering have often gone unnoticed in Western countries until now. Japan's distinct four seasons provide the perfect setting for the rail photographer, allowing Yoshi Hashida to capture steam engines in action against a variety of picturesque backdrops and stunning landscapes, including mountain scenes and coastal views. This book showcases some of his finest shots of steam engines in action from 1971 to 1975, primarily focusing on Western Japan.

Steam engines have a rich history in Japan, dating back to the country's early industrialization. These powerful machines were used for various purposes, including transportation, mining, and agriculture. However, with the introduction of the bullet train in the 1960s, steam engines began to decline in popularity.

Despite this, many steam engines remained in operation in Japan until their withdrawal in 1975. These engines were a testament to the country's engineering prowess and were often admired by rail enthusiasts and photographers alike.

One of the most notable features of steam engines in Japan was their narrow gauge. This type of railway track was designed to navigate the country's mountainous terrain and was narrower than standard gauge tracks, which are used in most of the world.

Steam engines were also known for their distinctive sound. The steam produced by the engines was loud and powerful, and it could be heard for miles around. This sound was a symbol of the country's industrial past and was a source of pride for many Japanese people.

Despite their decline in popularity, steam engines remained a symbol of Japan's industrial heritage. Many people continued to admire these machines and their unique features, and they were often featured in movies, TV shows, and books.

In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in steam engines in Japan. This has been driven by a growing appreciation for the country's cultural heritage and a desire to preserve the country's industrial history.

There are now several museums and heritage sites in Japan that showcase steam engines and other industrial artifacts. These sites allow visitors to learn about the country's industrial past and to appreciate the engineering skills that were used to create these machines.

Steam engines have also been used for tourism purposes in Japan. There are now several steam train tours that allow visitors to ride on these historic machines and experience the thrill of traveling on a narrow gauge railway.

In conclusion, steam engines have a rich history in Japan, dating back to the country's early industrialization. These powerful machines were a testament to the country's engineering prowess and were often admired by rail enthusiasts and photographers alike. Despite their decline in popularity, steam engines remain a symbol of Japan's industrial heritage and are now being preserved and celebrated by the country's people.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 233 x 164 x 10 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398103702