NYK is formed from the merger of two Japanese shipping companies (Mitsubishi Mail Steamship Company
and Kyodo Unyu) and inaugurated on October 1 with a fleet of 58 steamships. The two thick red lines on a
white background that make up the NYK flag, were designed to symbolize the union of the two companies.

London office is opened and Liner service begins to Australia, Europe and America.

Japanese consulate established in Sydney.

New Zealand Liner service begins.

Distinctive twin red stripes on white background become official funnel marking for NYK vessels.

Australia liner service resumes following World War II, along with Asia-Europe routes via the Suez Canal.

Japanese embassy established in Canberra.

NYK's Aki Maru was chosen for the Japanese Floating Fair which toured Australia and New Zealand.
Demonstrating Japanese products such as TVs, transistor radios, cars and cameras, and encouraging trade.

Container services to Australia begins.

Australia-Malaysia-Persian Gulf container service begins.