Tobacco of the Emperor: A Guide to Imperial Japanese Cigarettes, Pipes, Matches & Accessories explores the Japanese tobacco and cigarette trade throughout Asia and the South Pacific from the early 20th century to the end of the Second World War. The book presents a short history of tobacco in Japan, with a particular focus on the 19th century, when Japan was ‘opened’ to the West. The resultant period of rapid modernization saw the adoption of European-style mechanization and social cues, and quickly led to cigarette displacing earlier pipe tobacco. This important new book charts the rise of Japan’s tobacco industry, following it through the Imperial Period to the Second World War, and examines Japan’s efforts to exploit and capitalize on the tobacco and opium trade throughout Asia.

Tobacco of the Emperor addresses each of the major tobacco products made in Japan and its territories, as well as those produced in countries under Japanese wartime occupation. Separate chapters detail key Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Filipino, and Indonesian brands, with particular attention to those brands issued by the Imperial Japanese Army and Navy. Incidents of historical interest—such as the lacing of certain cigarettes with opium, and the inspection of packets by U.S. military intelligence—are presented with critical analysis and an eye toward dispelling common myths and misconceptions.

Tobacco of the Emperor is illustrated with hundreds of original photographs, supported by fascinating archival and artistic materials. The beautiful product artwork of the era is captured in all of its original glory by renowned photographer James Rupley, and presented with important historical and collector’s context. European-style designs from the 19th century eventually gave way to more distinctly Japanese iconography during the period of resurgent nationalism in the 1930s that continued through the Second World War. Tobacco of the Emperor follows the evolution of Japanese tobacco packaging design throughout this fascinating, complex period.

While the book is primarily intended as an identification and reference guide for collectors, curators, and researchers, enthusiasts will find much to enjoy in this beautiful, lavishly illustrated volume.