Japan Best websites for information?

[Teebo]

What are some of the best websites for reading and identification of items from the WW2 Imperial Japanese Army?

Thanks

[Brian Wolfe]

I've never ventured farther than the GMIC, never had the need.

Some of the most knowledable people are right here; I'm not one of them...yet.

Regards

Brian

[Dieter3]

Depends on what it is. Military hardware, weapons - Gunboards - Japanese sub forum.

[pjcampo1]

What does the Seal of Emperor Hirohito look like and his regular signature?

Is there a copy (in Japanese) of the surrender signed on the USS Missouri?

What is the highest medal in Japan similar to U.S. Congressional Medal of Honor?

Edited May 1, 2016 by pjcampo1

[pieter1012]

Hi pjcampo,

the Japanese Emperor uses two kinds of Imperial seals; the Dai Nippon Kokuji, which is the State seal and the Tenno Gyoji, which is his Privy seal. For instance award documents signed by the Emperor would carry the State seal (see picture of Emperor Hirohito's signature below the chrysanthemum mark and above the State seal on an award document). The Privy seal would for instance, be used by personal appointments, such as the appointment of a cabinet minister (enclosed a picture of the Privy seal above which Emperor Hirohito signed as Regent on behalf of his father, Emperor Taisho).

A Japanese document, signed by the Emperor and the whole cabinet on 14 August 1945, is often seen in books on the Japanese surrender. However, this is not a Japanese copy of the Missouri document, but the Imperial rescript on the decision to surrender. I am sure there must be also a Japanese translation of the actual surrender document signed by foreign minister Shigemitsu, but I haven't seen one. Should add that this Imperial rescript has the Privy seal of the Emperor below his signature

Japan had no bravery medal such as the Congressional Medal of Honor of Victoria Cross. Its highest military award was the order of the Golden Kite, which came in seven classes. Depending on one's rank a different class was awarded for brave or outstanding service during war.

Hope this information is useful. regards

Pieter

 

Edited May 1, 2016 by pieter1012