Rules for Living in Nagoya - Paperback

by Eric Shahan (Translator), Imae Goro (Author)

This is a translation of 違警罪図解 刑法抄出 Focus on Criminal Law: An Illustrated Guide to Misdemeanor Crimes or simply Rules for Living In Nagoya. This is an illustrated guide to new laws created after the Meiji Restoration in 1868. While Japan had a fairly high literacy rate in the major cities, simple illustrations were included to clearly show each violation.

This book was part of the Meiji Government's plan to "modernize" Japanese society. Their philosophy was Move away from Asia, Accept European Influence 脱亜入欧. This book was distributed to citizens of Nagoya in order to familiarize them with the new regulations. Police officers were empowered to fine people on the spot for violations. Alternately humorous "It is a violation to startle a horse" and horrifying, "It is a violation to bury a body without notifying the authorities" this book is a fascinating look at Japan emerging from the feudal era.