Brand record
Alps
Alps Shoji Co. Ltd. was a Japanese toy maker based in Tokyo and founded in 1948. Its range included vehicle toys, and its products belonged to the postwar tin-toy trade, which served export markets. Japanese makers moved from wind-up mechanisms toward battery-powered toys in the mid-1950s; by the early 1970s, Alps was moving into electronic toys. Marks on toys and packaging may identify a distributor or marketer rather than the factory, so individual objects require care in attribution.
- Founded
- 1948
- Final year
- 1970
- Countries
- Japan
- Locations
- Japan · 1948
The story of Alps
Alps Toy Co. embarked on its journey into the world of toy creation in post-WWII Japan circa 1948, amidst a nation eager to rebuild. The company surprised the world with its innovative tin toys, perfecting its craft with each creation and soon became synonymous with classic Japanese tin toy collectibles. Started by a group of entrepreneurs, the company warmed its way into the hearts of countless toy enthusiasts worldwide. An interesting fact surrounding the company is the prevalent rumor that Alps did not actually manufacture its toys. Instead, it's believed that many of its memorable creations were fabricated by various small factories throughout Tokyo city, which attributes to the range and diversity of Alps product portfolio. This obscure past makes the brand ever more fascinating to history buffs and toy collectors.
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