Japanese Fire Fighting Equipment Ca. 1800-1870.  The large engine was once used at the estate of a wealthy rice dealer in Kameoka, near the city of Kyoto.  It was designed to go into action very close to a fire.  Supplied with water from buckets, the engine's two piston pumps moved the water through a bamboo spout that is missing from this piece.  The other equipment was also used in the neighborhood of Kyoto.  Japan began its modern history in the 1860's when it began trading with European nations and the United States.  The Japanese rapidly adapted western technology.  By the 1890's their fire engines were as good as those used in any nation.

This collection of Japanese fire equipment is owned by Hall of Flame and on display at their museum in Phoenix.