150 Years of Railways in Japan: The Great Railway Map Archive

Tracing Japan’s Modern History Through Railway Maps

Japan’s first railway opened in 1872. By 2022, the nation marked 150 years of railway development—an era also reflected in its maps.

Railway maps were created by operators for planning and construction, and by travelers to reach their destinations. They also appeared on posters and illustrated tourist maps, capturing the imagination of the public.

This commemorative volume showcases around 150 carefully selected railway maps produced over the last 150 years.

• Includes panoramic maps by “Taisho Hiroshige” Hatsusaburo Yoshida, route maps from timetables, and diagrams of tram and subway systems.
• Divided into five historical periods, each section presents full maps and close-ups printed in high resolution, along with clear, informative commentary.
• Fold-out pages (tri-fold and bi-fold gatefolds) highlight large-format maps with striking visual impact.
• Rich columns delve into the history of railways and mapping in Japan, and the volume concludes with a comprehensive timeline spanning 150 years, complete with rare photos and documents.
• Supervised by renowned map researcher Keisuke Imao, an authority on cartography, topography, and railway history.

This landmark publication is part of Shogakukan’s 100th anniversary project and offers a unique lens into how Japan’s railways have shaped the country and the lives of its people.