Minifigure – Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) Infantryman (46th Infantry Regiment – Siege of Tsingtao) WWI (LEGO Compatible)

Character Identification

Specific Name: WWI Imperial Japanese Army (IJA) Infantryman (46th Infantry Regiment – Siege of Tsingtao)

This figure represents a soldier of the Imperial Japanese Army during World War I, specifically from the 46th Infantry Regiment of the 18th Division. This unit was the primary force deployed by Japan (as part of the Allied Powers) to attack the German colonial port of Tsingtao (Qingdao) in 1914.

Visual Description

This custom-printed minifigure features the distinct “Meiji Era” transition uniform used during the Great War:

• Collar Insignia (Unit ID): The most critical historical detail is the pair of Red Collar Tabs featuring the yellow number “46”.

  • Red: Indicates the Infantry branch.

  • “46”: Identifies the 46th Infantry Regiment. This regiment was historically part of the 18th Division (based in Kurume), which was the main division sent to fight the Germans in Tsingtao.

• Uniform (Type 45): He wears the Type 45 (Meiji 45) Khaki Uniform, which replaced the dark blue uniforms of the Russo-Japanese War.

  • Red Piping: Distinctive Red Piping runs along the cuffs of the sleeves. This was a holdover visual style from the 19th-century uniforms and is accurate for early WWI Japanese troops.

  • Yellow Straps: The yellow detailing on the chest straps likely represents the wool or cloth backing of the field gear.

• Equipment:

  • Y-Straps: He wears brown leather Infantry Suspenders.

  • Ammo Pouches: The brown leather pouches on the front are standard issue for the Arisaka Type 38 rifle.

  • Bayonet: On the back view, a black Bayonet Frog/Scabbard is printed on his left hip.

  • Canteen: A tan/brown Water Canteen is printed on his rear right hip.

• Legs: He wears the standard khaki Puttees (Leg Wraps) cross-tied with black laces, and black leather ankle boots.

• Head: The figure has a Shaved Head, reflecting the strict discipline and hygiene standards of the Imperial Army at the time. He has an angry, shouting expression.

Historical Background

• The Siege of Tsingtao (1914): Shortly after WWI began, Japan honored its alliance with Britain and declared war on Germany. The Japanese 18th Division landed in Shandong to besiege the German fortress city of Tsingtao.

• The 46th Regiment: As part of the 23rd Brigade (under Major General Yamada), the 46th Regiment saw heavy fighting against German fortifications. They were among the first Allied troops to engage in combat in the Far East theater of WWI.

• Allied Powers: Unlike in WWII, in World War I, the Japanese were on the side of the Allies (fighting alongside British forces) against the Germans.