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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
The Osaka and Nagoya Rail Agency played a pivotal role in shaping travel culture in early Showa-era Japan. Through their innovative advertising campaigns, they encouraged urban dwellers to explore regional destinations by rail, making seaside escapes and day trips accessible to a growing middle class. Their posters not only promoted tourism but also reflected the optimism and modernity of interwar Japan, where leisure and mobility became symbols of progress.
By blending commercial aims with cultural storytelling, the agency’s work contributed to a broader appreciation of Japan’s diverse landscapes and helped establish the visual language of Japanese travel promotion.
The Artwork
This poster, Sea Bathing in Obama, was created to entice travelers to the coastal town of Obama in Fukui Prefecture. During the 1930s, seaside recreation was increasingly seen as both a healthy and fashionable pursuit, and railway companies highlighted such destinations as ideal summer retreats. The artwork captures the spirit of the era, when posters served as invitations to enjoy the restorative pleasures of nature and the convenience of modern rail travel.
Rather than focusing on famous landmarks, the image emphasizes the everyday joys of swimming, relaxation, and scenic beauty, embodying the democratic spirit of travel in prewar Japan.
Style & Characteristics
The composition features a tranquil shoreline edged by dramatic rock formations and lush pine trees, with several small figures wading and swimming in the clear blue water. The design employs bold, simplified forms and crisp outlines, hallmarks of classic Japanese travel posters intended to be instantly recognizable from a distance.
A harmonious palette of deep blues, vivid greens, bright whites, and subtle red accents evokes a sunlit, refreshing atmosphere. The overall effect is airy and nostalgic, perfectly suited for those drawn to vintage coastal imagery. Discover more in our sea and ocean posters or explore the vintage advertising posters collection.
In Interior Design
This vintage Japanese poster brings a light, breezy touch to interiors, especially in spaces inspired by coastal, Japandi, or mid-century modern styles. It pairs well with natural materials like oak, rattan, and linen, and stands out in minimalist gallery walls with matte black or white frames.
To create a harmonious look, complement the print’s blue and green hues with pale neutrals or soft gray walls, and add a pop of red for visual balance. For more Asian-inspired artworks, browse our Oriental collection.