Around the World in 1910: The Travel Diaries of a Japanese Engineer, Seizo Misaki

A Fascinating First-Hand Account of a Rapidly Changing World in 1910.In 1910, just as the world was standing on the precipice of modern globalization, a brilliant Japanese railway engineer named Seizo Misaki embarked on an epic journey around the globe.Around the World in 1910: The Travel Diaries of a Japanese Engineer, Seizo Misaki offers a rare and captivating non-Western perspective on the early 20th century. Through his meticulously kept diaries, compiled and contextualized by historian Dr. Takeo Maruyama, readers are invited to travel alongside Misaki as he:Crosses the vast and rugged terrain of the Trans-Siberian Railway.Explores the cutting-edge technology and grand exhibitions of Edwardian London and Europe.Traverses the American continent, observing the explosive industrial growth of New York, Chicago, and San Francisco. More than just a travelogue, this book is a unique blend of sharp technical observation, cultural encounters, and the personal struggles of an engineer tasked with shaping the future of Japan’s infrastructure. From navigating the complexities of international diplomacy to experiencing the dawn of modern amusement parks (which would later inspire Japan's iconic Koshien area), Misaki’s insights are remarkably prescient.Perfect for history enthusiasts, railway aficionados, and anyone fascinated by the cross-cultural exchanges of the Meiji era, this book brings a forgotten pioneer's incredible journey back to life. Read more