Fukuoka Industrial Exposition, Kyushu Electric Light & Traction Co. promotional postcard set, Fukuoka, 1920. One of several postcards published by the primary sponsor of the Exposition to promote the use of electricity at home. The inset photo illustrates the ease and safety with which electricity illuminates a dressing area, and the accompanying high-tension lines needed for transmission.

See also:
Japan Electrical Exhibition, Ueno Park, Tokyo, 1918.
Evening illuminations, Peace Commemorative Exposition, Ueno Park, Tokyo, 1922.
Tokyo Exposition for Domestic Industry Promotion in Commemoration of the Great Coronation, Ueno Park, Tokyo, 1928.

The Fukuoka Industrial Exposition occurred between March 20 – May 20, 1920, organized chiefly by the Kyushu Electric Light & Traction Company together with the Chemical Industry Association, reflecting Kyushu’s continuing industrialization and modernization in the post-Meiji Taishō period.

Fukuoka Industrial Exposition, Kyushu Electric Light & Traction Co. promotional set, Fukuoka, 1920. Hydro-powered generating plants produced 70% of Kyushu’s power needs.

Pavilions showcased local and national progress in commerce, industry, agriculture, and technology, encouraging trade and investments in the relatively undeveloped region. The exposition was spread between two sites: the First venue was located on the former Fukuoka prison grounds; the Second venue was sited on land reclaimed as part of a port expansion project. Attendance over the two months totaled approximately 900,000 visitors.

The were multiple key industrial pavilions open for the public to view exhibits of Japan’s many technological achievements, most notably ship building (Mitsubishi Dock Yards, Nagasaki) and mining (Mitsui Mining, Miike; Yawata Steel Works, Yahata). The arts and performance entertainment, and colonial exhibitions from Formosa, Chosen (Korea), and Manchuria were also on display.

The Kyushu Electric Light & Traction Co. was a principal sponsor of the Exposition, providing power throughout the venues and the night-time lighting illuminating the grounds for after-dark visitors, in and of itself an attraction. The association also passed along marketing materials promoting the use of electricity at home, including the postcard set on this page.