Motoring in Japan by Thomas B. Blow The first English description of driving in Japan
[Japan] Fascinating account of a drive from Kyoto to Karuizawa and back in 1911. Thomas B. Blow was an English art dealer who lived in Kyoto at that time and sold ceramics, metalwork and other items to collectors outside Japan. He owned a British-made 7/8 horsepower, 2-cylinder Swift built in 1904 (the first model). In 1913, Kaishinsha (the forerunner of Datsun and, later, Nissan) would start building cars based on the Swift. His account is a great read filled with memorable anecdotes. He drove about 700 miles with his wife, used 40 gallons of petrol, and spent 111 yen! This article was probably written for a magazine but this appears to be a separate publication that Blow may have given to acquaintances. The foldout map shows the route they drove.
NP [probably Thomas B. Blow]. No place. 1911.
8 leaves (printed on one side only). 23 x 16.2cm + 1 folding map (54 x 41.5cm).
In very good condition. Covers a bit worn with chipped edges and mior loss at top right. Staples rusted. Internally very good. b33040002
