The Asahi Journal is the official magazine of  Japanese Information International, a special interest group (SIG) of IPMS USA that concentrates on Japanese military history from 1900-1945. This means that it is an enthusiasts magazine. As such, it has several benefits over other types of publication such as limited adverts and the ability to cater to a very specialized group of readers. It is this ability to cater to people who are intensely interested in the subject that makes these kinds of publications so useful. 

I only recently learned of it through my various quests for information on the Internet. Tom Hall, who edits the magazine, was kind enough to answer my beginner's questions on a Ki-43 I was modeling and through his help, I learned about the Asahi Journal. This is the second issue I have received and I'm quite pleased with what is in it. I should take this opportunity to mention that while the two issues I have are basically airplane stuff, the journal is not limited to aviation.

The magazine is a 38 page, normal US sized bound magazine. It is mostly in black and white, though there is a page or two in color when it is really needed. This is something that was probably taken to Kinkos or another similar place to get collated and bound as is typical of enthusiast publications. That doesn't detract from things at all as the printing and images are easy to read and clear.

Here is what is in this issue:

• A report from the 2000 IPMS National convention

• Development of the D4Y 'Judy' including some drawings and images from tech manuals

• 'Judy's interesting belly'; an article on the underside of the D4Y

• 'Judy's Cameras'. This talks about the recce fit to the D4Y.

• Soryu's Judy at Midway. A speculative piece on the markings of this rare aircraft

• Notes on Judy Colors. This is the major article on the D4Y, covering the camo and units that flew the aircraft. There are a number of tail drawings showing the various markings used by the aircraft.

• An article on data plates from a N1J1 'Rex'

• A short language lesson 

• A piece on the markings and fittings of the Shokaku's flight deck

• Kit and accessory reviews

• A section of errata and reader's comments

This is what every enthusiast magazine should be about. Each issue takes a major topic and expands it through various articles. The writing is quite good and the research is superb. There are plenty of references from whence the data was derived so that you can seek the truth yourself. It is obvious that Tom goes through a lot to make sure that each edition is properly done and it shows. The only downside of the whole deal is that back issues are not available due to a lack of personnel to do the job!

If you have interest in the subject, you can contact Tom Hall at hall023038@aol.com for more information. You can also write to Tom at: Japanese Information International, Inc,  2729 Magnolia Ave, Long Beach, CA 90806

Review copy courtesy of me!!

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