Life in Japanese Manchuria: A Tourist's account of Manchukuo

Peter Fleming's journey through Manchuria in 1934 is documented, highlighting his experiences and observations. He describes the bureaucratic processes in Manchuli, shares critical opinions on Russia, and details the tense atmosphere in Harbin under Japanese control. Fleming visits an opium den and conducts interviews in Shing King, including a meeting with Puyi, the puppet ruler of Manchukuo. He reflects on the pervasive Japanese propaganda and its impact on foreign perceptions.

What was the only outward sign of change that Peter Fleming noticed upon reaching Manchuli?

• A yellow flag with stripes

• A bustling marketplace

• A new railway station

• A modern hotel

How did Peter Fleming describe the atmosphere in Harbin under Japanese control?

• Peaceful and serene

• Tense and fearful

• Joyful and festive

• Indifferent and calm

What role did the White Russians play in Harbin according to Fleming?

• They were diplomats

• They were teachers

• They were security guards

• They were merchants

What was Peter Fleming's impression of the opium den he visited in Harbin?

• It was small and disappointing

• It was lively and crowded

• It was luxurious and grand

• It was modern and clean

Who was Puyi, the person Fleming met in Shing King?

• A Japanese general

• The former Emperor of China

• A British diplomat

• A Chinese merchant

What was the common response Fleming received during his interviews in Shing King?

• Detailed explanations

• Requests for more time

• Wang Tao, the principle of benevolent rule

• Direct refusals

What did Fleming find monotonous about his time in Shing King?

• The local cuisine

• The architecture

• The weather

• The interviews with officials

How did Fleming describe the Japanese propaganda efforts in Manchuria?

• Nonexistent

• Frantic and misguided

• Subtle and persuasive

• Highly effective

What does Fleming suggest is the root cause of the Japanese insistence on propaganda?

• A cultural tradition

• An inferiority complex

• A desire for global recognition

• A need for economic support

What was the reaction of foreign observers to Japanese propaganda, according to Fleming?

• They were skeptical

• They were indifferent

• They were supportive

• They were convinced