An Itinerary of Hokkaido Japan Presented by The Hakodate Chamber of Commerce
[Japan] Extremely scarce work published for the World's Columbian Exhibition (aka the Chicago World's Fair) and what can be considered the first guidebook in English for travellers to Hokkaido. John Batchelor (1854-1944), well-known for his missionary work amongst the Ainu people over the 64 years he lived in Japan, wrote this book but was reluctant to do so according to the preface. The book gives a geographical description of Hokkaido and also a practical guide to daily living. The ads in the rear are very interesting, too. There are multiple ads for Kanemori companies and also probably the first English ad for Hakodate-based photographer Kenzo Tamoto. Colour lithograph cover and inside front cover. Silk tie binding as issued. Printed at the Tokyo Tsukiji Type Foundry, Japan.
Tokyo. Hakodate Chamber of Commerce. 1893.
pp[2], ii, 28+2 fold-outs, [12]. 19.3 x 12.8cm.
In very good condition. Cover has light tape at top and bottom near binding. Inside front cover near binding split but holding. Minor loss to lower corner of rear cover. '27160' written on blank page facing preface. Faint stamp on rear cover reading, 'Japanese Central Association'. Otherwise very good. b34031128
