Britain asks for assistance on 7 August 1914, Japan issues an ultimatum on 15 August, and war with Germany follows on 23 August. Japan also declares war on Austria-Hungary on 25 August. Troops land in Shandong on 2 September and surround Tsingtao, roughly ten days after Japan declared war on Germany. About 25,000 troops arrive with a seaplane carrier, five battleships and battlecruisers, cruisers, and destroyers. The speed and scale of the operation suggest preparations began by early August or earlier, rather than waiting for the declaration. Anticipating a British request is offered as a possible explanation, since Britain's war against more than one power activates the treaty's support clause.
Chapter · 39:33-43:54
Japan prepares rapidly for Tsingtao
Japan's September landing suggests preparations were underway before its formal declaration of war.