【Part2】Meiji Japan's search for 'civilization': the Iwakura Mission│TAKII Kazuhiro

Introduction to the Iwakura Mission

The Iwakura Mission was a pivotal diplomatic journey undertaken during the Meiji era (1868-1912), aimed at reviewing Western powers' technologies and educational systems to facilitate Japan's modernization. The mission departed from Japan in 1871 and lasted until 1873, covering various countries, including the United States, several European nations, and more.

Key figures included:

  • Iwakura Tomomi: A leading statesman and diplomat, he played a significant role in shaping modern Japan's policies.

  • Kido Takayoshi: A prominent politician and advocate of the Meiji Restoration, he pushed for democratic reforms.

  • Ōkubo Toshimichi: An influential figure in government, he was pivotal in modernizing Japan’s administration and industry.

  • Kume Kunitake: Serving as the mission's secretary, he later became a noted historian, documenting the journey and providing detailed reports on Western civilization and technology.

Observations on Clothing and Civilization

Kume Kunitake made keen observations regarding cultural differences in attitudes toward clothing between Western and Eastern civilizations. He noted that:

  • Western Preferences: Westerners typically prefer neat, tailored clothing that signifies social order and discipline.

  • Eastern Styles: In contrast, Easterners, particularly the Japanese, favor more relaxed and expansive styles, such as kimonos, which allow for greater fluidity and comfort.

Kume observed:

  • Western attire is often tight-fitting, which he contrasted with the spaciousness of Oriental clothing that symbolizes freedom.

  • In comparing art styles, he noted that:

    • Western Art: Emphasizes realism, striving to depict the human body and nature accurately, as exemplified by the works of Gustave Courbet and other Realist artists.

    • Eastern Art: Tends to prefer stylization and abstraction, evident in Japanese ink paintings that reflect Zen philosophies.

Reflections on Western Civilization

Kume’s extensive observations led him to articulate several conclusions that highlighted the complexities of Western civilization:

  • Conflict and Commerce: Western civilization is often characterized by conflict, even in peacetime, through economic means, which he termed the 'war of peace.'

  • Contrast in Values: He described the stark contrasts between Western greed, which drives economic policies, and the more restrained, community-oriented approach of Asian societies.

  • Political Dynamics: Kume asserted that Western politics revolves around the pursuit of national interests, frequently at the expense of universal moral laws, leading to ethical dilemmas in international relations.

Insights from Museums

Throughout their travels, the mission visited numerous museums, leading Kume to draw several important conclusions:

  • Cultural Heritage: Museums serve as chronicles of a nation’s development and are pivotal for understanding national identity, progress, and cultural heritage.

  • Historical Awareness: Kume recognized the importance of fostering a sense of historical awareness to build nationalism and civic responsibility among citizens.

  • Strength of a Nation: He concluded that a country’s strength is deeply rooted in its knowledge and appreciation of its own history and culture, which shapes its national character and resilience in the global arena.

Encounter with Otto von Bismarck

A major highlight of the mission was the encounter with Chancellor Otto von Bismarck in Berlin, where he emphasized:

  • National Power Supremacy: Bismarck's perspective highlighted that larger countries often disregard established treaties when they conflict with national interests, promoting realpolitik as a guiding principle in foreign affairs.

  • Political Implications: This encounter significantly shaped Ōkubo Toshimichi's political strategies, reinforcing his focus on strengthening Japan’s national power and capacity to navigate international relations effectively.

Ōkubo Toshimichi's Political Agenda

Upon returning to Japan, Ōkubo advocated for a comprehensive political agenda focused on:

  • National Capacity: Recognizing Japan’s limitations as a small nation, he emphasized strengthening Japan’s national capacity and infrastructure.

  • Domestic Development: He promoted the importance of resisting military expansion in favor of domestic industrial development to support economic self-sufficiency.

  • National Industrial Exhibition: He initiated the National Industrial Exhibition in 1877, which aimed to foster collaboration among entrepreneurs and stimulate innovation.

Reflection on the 21st Century

The speaker prompts discussion surrounding a contemporary equivalent to the Iwakura Mission:

  • Global Conflicts: Samuel P. Huntington’s concept of “The Clash of Civilizations” raises concerns about rising global conflicts and the difficulties of cultural representation in a rapidly globalizing world.

  • Japan's Role: Japan faces unique challenges related to its international engagement and positioning; however, it still has the potential to contribute positively through cultural exports, soft power, and international cooperation in development aid.

  • Modern Mission Concept: The modern Iwakura Mission could focus on the exchange of knowledge, cultural understanding, and the enhancement of global connections, rather than retreating into isolationism, emphasizing the interconnectedness of civilizations.