Naniwa was a prestigious protected cruiser and became closely associated with Tōgō's rise. During the Kowshing incident, Chinese troops aboard the chartered transport refused internment or surrender, and Naniwa sank the vessel. Survivor testimony alleged fire against crowded lifeboats and a refusal to rescue Chinese soldiers. Those allegations fit a severe contemporary Japanese policy toward opponents who rejected an offered surrender. Royal Navy practice likely would have differed, and the incident complicates any uncomplicated heroic portrait of Tōgō.
Chapter · 46:08-51:22
Naniwa, the Kowshing incident, and Tōgō's hard edge
Command of the protected cruiser Naniwa led Tōgō into the controversial sinking of the troop transport Kowshing at the opening of the First Sino-Japanese War.