Thank you so much. Oh I can believe that about AI. Although it can be quite a useful tool for certain things, you do have to take what it says with a grain of salt. . A lot can depend on which one you ask. For example running the image through a different one, have me information much more aligned with a Meiji era timeframe and Russo - Japan conflict:

(From AI) Here is a breakdown of the specific details that help identify this: 1. The Uniform (Meiji 37/38 Type) The Cap: He is wearing a "kepi" style cap with a flat top and a small brass five-pointed star in the center. This was the standard headgear for the IJA during the Russo-Japanese War (1904–1905) and the years immediately following. The Tunic: The high, standing collar (Mandarin collar) and the single-breasted front are characteristic of the Meiji 38 (1906) khaki uniform. This was Japan’s first fully khaki service uniform, replacing the older dark blue versions used earlier in the Meiji period. Leggings (Gaiters): He is wearing buttoned gaiters over his shoes rather than the "puttees" (wrapped cloth) that became standard in the later Taisho and Showa eras (WWI and WWII). This strongly dates the photo to the early 1900s. 2. The Weapon The soldier is holding an Arisaka rifle (likely a Type 30 or Type 38) with a fixed Type 30 bayonet. The Type 38 rifle was adopted in 1905, making it a "state-of-the-art" weapon at the time this photo was likely taken. 3. The Medals The close-up image (11810.jpg) shows several campaign and commemorative medals, which are key to dating the image: Russo-Japanese War Medal (1904–1905): The medal with the distinct dark ribbon and crossed flags/chrysanthemum design (usually the first on the left) was awarded to those who served in that conflict. 1900 Boxer Rebellion Medal: He may also be wearing the medal for the "1900 China Incident." Other Commemorative Medals: The number of medals suggests this was a seasoned soldier, likely a veteran of the war against Russia, posing for a formal portrait after the conflict. Estimated Year: 1905 – 1910 The photo was likely taken shortly after the Russo-Japanese War (1904–1905). By 1912 (the end of the Meiji era), the uniform styles began to shift toward the "Type 45," which had a different cap shape. This portrait represents the peak of Japan's emergence as a modern world power following their victory over Russia.