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"Very nice Posters. The quality is amazing and we received it very quickly !"
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"A shop to visit absolutely. Huge selection of posters. We spent more than an hour there !"
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"Perfect to find gift. Price are very good. An they can frame and pack it on site"
About the Artist
Japan National Railways played a pivotal role in shaping the visual identity of postwar Japanese travel. As a major commissioner of graphic design from the 1950s through the 1970s, it sought to inspire domestic tourism and regional pride through striking posters. These works became cultural touchstones, blending modern aesthetics with local character and helping to define the golden era of Japanese travel advertising.
Collectors and design enthusiasts now appreciate these posters for their historical significance and their enduring visual appeal, which bridges the worlds of functional promotion and refined artistry.
The Artwork
This 1960 poster was created to promote Iwakuni City as a destination on Japan’s expanding rail network. By featuring the iconic Kintai Bridge and the historic castle above, the image evokes both the engineering achievements and the storied past of the region. The poster served as an invitation to travelers, encouraging exploration and a deeper appreciation of local landmarks during a time when rail journeys were central to Japanese tourism.
For those interested in the era’s visual culture, discover more in our vintage travel advertising posters and explore unique finds in our selection.
Style & Characteristics
The poster’s composition is defined by the sweeping curves of the Kintai Bridge, which span a tranquil river and lead the eye toward the distant castle on the hillside. The use of clean, geometric lines and simplified forms reflects the clarity and efficiency of mid-century Japanese graphic design, intended for immediate recognition in busy public spaces.
A harmonious palette of cool blues and greens dominates the scene, complemented by muted browns and grays that suggest natural materials and the riverside setting. The atmosphere is peaceful and contemplative, capturing the quiet beauty of Iwakuni while embodying the optimism of 1960s travel imagery.
In Interior Design
This vintage travel poster brings a sense of calm and understated sophistication to living rooms, entryways, or studies. Its serene landscape and balanced colors make it especially well-suited to minimalist, Japandi, or modern spaces, where it pairs beautifully with light wood finishes and natural textiles.
To create a cohesive look, echo the poster’s palette with slate blue ceramics, moss green accents, or warm neutral decor. It also layers seamlessly with other landscape wall art or a curated display of Japanese inspired prints for a refined travel-inspired interior.