Instead of using tanks, the Japanese troops achieved rapid advance with bicycles. These allowed fast movement along the narrow jungle tracks and could be carried, if necessary. By advancing directly through the jungle instead of along the heavily defended roads, these troops caught the British and Commonwealth troops by surprise. Here, the Japanese crossing Burmese rivers.

Crossing a Burmese river 

Japanese commanders parade through the streets of Hong Kong. On December 19, 1941 the Japanese landed on Hong Kong island. The British colony finally surrendered on Christmas Day 1941.

Parade in Hong Kong

Japanese troops crossing the Chindwin river in Burma during the monsoon season. The use of  bicycles allowed fast movement along the narrow jungle tracks and could be carried, if necessary. By advancing directly through the jungle instead of along the heavily defended main roads, these troops caught the British and Commonwealth troops by surprise. 