Tobacco of the Emperor: Japanese WW2 Military Cigarettes and More

Published on December 5, 2022
Duration: 13:54

This video explores Japanese military tobacco from the early 1900s through WWII, focusing on brands like 'Hikari' and 'Hakko.' It details how commercial cigarettes were adapted for military use and how US Intelligence examined them for opium. The 'Imperial Gift Tobacco' is highlighted as a high-end item featuring the chrysanthemum crest.

Quick Summary

Japanese WW2 military cigarettes included brands like 'Hikari' and 'Hakko.' 'Hikari' was commercially produced for military rations, while 'Hakko' was army-produced in the Philippines. US Intelligence inspected packs for opium, and 'Imperial Gift Tobacco' featured the 16-petal chrysanthemum crest.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Tobacco of the Emperor Book
  2. 03:01Military Issue Hikari Cigarettes
  3. 04:04Army-Produced Hakko Cigarettes in Philippines
  4. 06:11US Intelligence Examined Packs & Opium Rumors
  5. 08:23Imperial Gift Tobacco: Chrysanthemum Crest

Frequently Asked Questions

What were 'Hikari' cigarettes during WW2?

'Hikari' (Brightness) cigarettes were commercially manufactured in Japan but marked for military use as ration items. These packs often remained sealed in their original foil packaging, indicating their status as issued supplies.

Who produced the 'Hakko' brand cigarettes?

The 'Hakko' brand cigarettes were manufactured directly by the Japanese Army, specifically the 10682 Unit. They utilized infrastructure seized in the Philippines during WW2 for production.

Why did US Intelligence inspect Japanese cigarettes?

US Intelligence inspected Japanese cigarettes found in the field to investigate rumors that they contained opium. Inspected packs received a triangular 'Examined in the Field' stamp.

What was 'Imperial Gift Tobacco'?

'Imperial Gift Tobacco' (Onshi no Tabako) was a high-end tobacco product given by the Japanese Royal Family. It featured gold foil, bonsai artwork, and cigarettes embossed with the 16-petal chrysanthemum crest.

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