September 16 — Japan’s History and Today

The 1890 Ertugrul Warship Disaster On September 16, 1890, the Ottoman Empire’s warship Ertugrul was shipwrecked off Kushimoto, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan. This event is remembered as a symbol of friendship between Japan and the Ottoman Empire and influenced later diplomatic relations. For foreign residents in Japan, it highlights Japan’s engagement with foreign nations in the late 19th century.

The 1910 Founding of the Nara Tramway On September 16, 1910, the Nara Tramway was established. This company later became Osaka Electric Tramway, the predecessor of today’s Kintetsu Railway. This marked an important step in the development of Japan’s transportation infrastructure, laying the foundation for modern rail networks. Understanding this helps foreign visitors appreciate the historical roots of Japan’s extensive train system.