[Photo Album]: WWII Japan

Asahikawa, Japan, 1940. Hardcover. Near Fine. String-tied black cloth covered photo album with stamped illustrations measuring 7" x 10". Contains 67 mounted sepia toned or black and white photographs in various sizes ranging from 1.5" x 1.5" to 6" x 4.5" with some captions. The album is very good or better with some missing photos, age toning, and rubbing on the boards. A photo album from a soldier identified only as "George" from his tour of Japan in 1945 while stationed there with the 305th Infantry 77 Division. Included are landscape views of Japan including the former military stronghold of Asahikawa and Sappora, as well as mountains, soldiers skiing, and a postcard of "pre-war" Heiwa Street. A man referred to as Colonel C. Hildebrand appears in a few pictures. One is taken outside of the 305 RCT Headquarters building, December 9, 1945 and says, "note the flag pole and 'Old Glory.' The Sedan was taken over from the Japs. It's a Ford with the steering wheel on the right side. My Officer in this building. -G.L." The troop is seen celebrating Christmas, posing with locals, including some girls in kimonos, and some of George's family back in the States. Also included are various pieces of ephemera including menus, gift shops, and Japanese prints. An interesting vernacular photo album that captures the immediate aftermath of the war.