Synopsis

The year 2018 commemorates the 150th anniversary of the Meiji era's commencement, a period that also signaled the end of the samurai’s dominance in Japan. The name "Meiji," meaning "Enlightened Rule," reflects the era's aim, which spanned from 1868 to 1912. At its heart lay the concept of "bunmei kaika"—civilization and enlightenment—a comprehensive program for modernizing Japan and establishing it as a powerful and respected force on the world stage. This transformative period witnessed sweepin