The geopolitical aspirations of the two empires - Russian and Japanese - led to the fact that at the end of the 18th century they became neighbors. However, good neighborly relations began to develop with difficulty. By the beginning of the 20th century, the samurai empire, which was gaining strength, began to strive to expand its state borders at the expense of its neighbors. History shows that the problem of territorial claims against Russia by the Japanese side was resolved primarily from a position of strength, and not at the diplomatic negotiating table. 60 years have passed since the complete defeat of militaristic Japan in World War II, but the protracted “territorial dispute” continues to remain the most pressing issue in the relations between the two states. This book by the famous military historian and writer A. V. Shishov examines the history of military conflicts between Russia and Japan in the 20th century, with particular emphasis on World War II.