Jinrikisha days in Japan

by Eliza Ruhamah Scidmore

"Jinrikisha Days in Japan" by Eliza Ruhamah Scidmore is a travel narrative written in the late 19th century. The book offers a vivid account of the author's experiences and observations as both a tourist and a foreign resident in Japan, capturing the uniquely charming and evolving aspects of Japanese culture and society during a time of modernization. Scidmore's work serves as a delightful guide for travelers seeking to understand the intricate beauty and everyday life of the Japanese people. At the start of the narrative, Scidmore reflects on her arrival in Japan, contrasting it with other parts of Asia. She describes the alluring landscape, from the picturesque coastlines to the iconic Mt. Fuji, and portrays the Japanese people as polite and aesthetically gifted. The author notes that the jinrikisha, a two-wheeled carriage pulled by a coolie, is a prominent mode of transport for both locals and visitors. Scidmore emphasizes the distinctiveness of Japanese culture, highlighting the interplay between tradition and the influences of modernization, while setting the stage for further exploration of places like Yokohama and its surrounding regions.