A Historic Tour and Encounters on the Pacific

In 1911, Waseda University’s baseball team embarked on a significant tour of the United States, building on a previous visit in 1905. The journey, filled with both athletic competition and cultural exchange, offered a unique perspective on the burgeoning relationship between Japanese and American baseball.

The team’s voyage included a memorable encounter with another vessel, the Tenyo Maru, on the Pacific Ocean. As the ships passed, they exchanged cheers, a fleeting but joyful moment for those aboard.

Arrival in San Francisco and the Japanese Community

The team safely arrived in San Francisco on April 13th, where they were greeted by former University of Chicago manager and pitcher, Mr. Page, alumnus Mr. Hashido, and other supporters. They were accommodated at the prestigious St. Francis Hotel.

San Francisco was home to a substantial Japanese population, with a significant number originating from Yamanashi Prefecture. The team found a sense of community in Japan Town, enjoying Japanese restaurants and hospitality.

Challenges and Observations: Anti-Japanese Sentiment

Despite the welcoming atmosphere within the Japanese community, the team observed the presence of anti-Japanese sentiment in San Francisco. This was attributed, in part, to economic factors, specifically the lower wages earned by Japanese workers compared to their Italian, Chinese, and Spanish counterparts.

There are various arguments on both sides regarding anti-Japanese behavior, but some of our fellow countrymen are complete country people who don’t understand anything, and they do things the Japanese way locally, which can be extremely unseemly. These are certainly one of the causes, but the major cause seems to be not due to differences in manners and customs, but entirely due to financial problems.

Yamanashi Nichinichi Shimbun, August 27, 1911

The article also noted the American government’s seemingly preferential treatment of Chinese immigrants, suggesting a broader strategic consideration.

Beyond San Francisco: Sacramento and Salt Lake City

Following their time in San Francisco, the team traveled to Sacramento, California’s capital, for a game before continuing to Salt Lake City. Salt Lake City was notable for its large salt lake, with a salt concentration twice that of seawater, and as the headquarters of the Mormon church.

The team observed that the Mormon church, which had previously practiced polygamy, had ceased the practice due to legal prohibitions.

FAQ

• When did Waseda University first play baseball in the United States? In 1905.
• Who greeted the team upon their arrival in San Francisco? Mr. Page and Mr. Hashido.
• What was a major cause of anti-Japanese sentiment in San Francisco? Economic competition due to lower wages for Japanese workers.