Videos of Old Japan

thomas

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Video footage taken in Japan, AI-colourised.

Tokyo 1913-1915 (Taisho period):




Tokyo, in the late 1940s:




Tokyo 1966:




Tokyo 1973:




Watching the last three videos, seeing how some things haven't changed is astounding. :)
 
This one's not only for railfans (撮り鉄 and 乗り鉄). :)

 
Cool documentary. It was neat to see how it all came together.
 
A 1962 documentary (in colour) on different styles of minka across Japan, from Kagoshima to Akita.

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The film style reminds me of the old Godzilla movies a bit.
 
BBC 1962: Japan's cherry blossoms

Trevor Philpott reports from Osaka, Japan, on the traditional Spring outing the Japanese take to admire the cherry blossom trees. Originally broadcast 26 April 1962.

 
Here's a video from Osaka in 1930—interesting imagery of Osaka Castle.





Another one from the Taisho Era - 大正のお花見 : Cherry-blossom viewing at the end of the Late Taishō era.

 
"The Human Face of Japan" (1982) isn't that old. However, it offers an intimate exploration of Japan during the early 1980s, revealing the complex interplay between rapid industrialization and enduring traditional values. It is directed and written by Oliver Howes and narrated by Peter Gwynne. This insightful documentary was produced by Film Australia in collaboration with the Australia-Japan Foundation.



Through vivid portrayals of diverse individuals—from factory workers and corporate executives to fishermen and aspiring artists—the documentary highlights various aspects of Japanese society. Topics include the country's push towards agricultural modernization, family dynamics in urban settings, workplace culture, vibrant festivals, technological advancement, and traditional rituals. By capturing everyday lives, "The Human Face of Japan" authentically illustrates how Japan balances forward-thinking innovation with a profound respect for its cultural heritage.

 
It is an interesting look at what was thought to be the future of Japan. As usual though, the future goes where it will.
 
A special documentary revisits the streets of Osaka between 1959 and 1971, a period when the 'Osaka City Tram' ran through the heart of the city before being discontinued in 1969. The film opens with a scene from Yodoyabashi in 1959, capturing a moment of national anticipation as boxer Sato Hatta prepared to challenge Pascal Perez for the world flyweight title....




Another one: Tokyo in 1956 (60fps HD):

 
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