History
In the early 20th century, Japan grew its military to become a strong power in Asia. It wanted more land and resources to support its growing industry and population.
Japan entered World War II in 1941 by attacking Pearl Harbor. This brought the United States into the war. Japan fought battles across the Pacific Ocean for several years against Allied forces.
In 1945, the United States used atomic bombs on two Japanese cities. Japan surrendered shortly after, which ended the war. Since then, Japan has rebuilt and focused on peaceful growth and trade.
Frequently Asked Questions
Notable Operations
Conflicts
Japan Forces & Equipment
Browse the armed forces, weapons, and vehicles fielded by Japan.
Hiroshima emergency responders
These brave teams worked to save people after the atomic bomb hit Hiroshima in 1945. They helped the wounded despite great danger and lack of supplies.
Imperial Japanese Army
The Imperial Japanese Army was the main land fighting force for Japan. It fought in many conflicts during the early 20th century.
Imperial Japanese Navy
The Imperial Japanese Navy was the large sea force of Japan. It was one of the most powerful navies in the world during the 1940s.
Imperial Japanese Navy Air Service
This was the air force part of the Japanese Navy. It played a major role in fighting against the United States in the Pacific Ocean.
Japanese 14th Infantry Division
The Japanese 14th Infantry Division was a unit in the Japanese army. It fought in China and later in the Philippines during World War II.
Japanese 238th Infantry Regiment
The 238th Infantry Regiment was a Japanese army unit that fought during World War II. It was part of the forces defending Japanese-held islands.
Japanese 32nd Army
The Japanese 32nd Army was a defensive group created to protect Okinawa. It fought until the end of the battle in 1945.
Japanese 78th Infantry Regiment
The 78th Infantry Regiment was a unit of the Imperial Japanese Army that fought during the Second World War in the Pacific theater.
Japanese Army
The Imperial Japanese Army was the main land fighting force for Japan during World War II. It fought across Asia and the Pacific Ocean.
Combat Medals & Awards
China Incident War Medal
A campaign medal awarded to troops who took part in combat across mainland China.
Great East Asia War Medal
The planned campaign medal for Japanese troops fighting across the Pacific in World War II.
Japan Self-Defense Forces Defense Honor Badge
Modern Japan's top military decoration for bravery, outstanding leadership, and heroic lifework.
Japan Self-Defense Forces International Peace Cooperation Service Ribbon
A modern service honor awarded to Japanese personnel serving on overseas peacekeeping missions.
Order of the Golden Kite
This was the highest military award for combat bravery and leadership in Imperial Japan.
Order of the Rising Sun
A prestigious national award given for outstanding service to Japan, including military and defense leadership.
Order of the Sacred Treasure
An imperial order awarded for long, dedicated, and distinguished service to the state.
Russo-Japanese War Medal
A campaign medal given to Japanese soldiers and sailors who served in the 1904 to 1905 war.
World War I Inter-Allied Victory Medal
Japan's version of the shared Allied victory medal celebrating the end of World War I.
World War I War Medal
A service medal issued to troops who fought with the Allies against Germany in World War I.
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