Culture

September 23 — Japan’s History and Today

September 22, 2026

On September 23, 1871, the Meiji government issued the Hair Cutting and Sword Abolishment Order, and in 1908, the Yokohama Line opened. These events mark important milestones in Japan's modernization and transportation infrastructure.

The 1871 Hair Cutting and Sword Abolishment Order On September 23, 1871 (Meiji 4), the Japanese government announced a law banning the traditional samurai hairstyle (topknot) and carrying swords, encouraging Western-style haircuts and clothing. This was a significant step toward modernization, changing how people dressed and viewed social status. For foreigners living in Japan, this moment represents a cultural shift that shaped modern Japanese society.

The Opening of the Yokohama Line in 1908 In 1908, the Yokohama Line began operation, connecting Tokyo and Kanagawa Prefecture to enhance transportation and economic growth. This railway remains an essential route for commuters today. Understanding this development can help foreign residents appreciate Japan's extensive railway history and infrastructure.