Our Heritage

The origin of MHI can be traced all the way back to 1884

In that year, Yataro Iwasaki – the founder of Mitsubishi, took a lease out on government-owned Nagasaki Shipyard. He named it Nagasaki Shipyard & Machinery Works and started the shipbuilding business on a full scale.

This shipbuilding business was later turned into Mitsubishi Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., and then launched as Mitsubishi Heavy-Industries, Ltd. in 1934, establishing its position as the largest private firm in Japan, manufacturing ships, heavy machinery, airplanes, and railroad cars.

Following the end of World War II, a law aimed at dissolving "zaibatsu" or Nagasaki Shipyard & Machinery Works dismantling the over-concentration of economic power was in effect. Thus, in 1950, MHI was divided into three entities: West Japan Heavy-Industries, Ltd., Central Japan Heavy-Industries, Ltd. and East Japan Heavy-Industries, Ltd. It was later consolidated in 1964 and reborn as Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.

In 1970, MHI's automobile department became independent and Mitsubishi Motors Corporation began manufacturing and marketing automobiles.

Integrating each company's management and technical expertise and enhancing competitiveness in domestic and international markets, MHI has come a long way.

Our Principles

All MHI Group companies share one common philosophy that continues to underlie tour activities, even after more than 130 years. That shared philosophy is encapsulated in a creed articulated by the fourth president of the Mitsubishi organization, Koyata Iwasaki, in the 1930s. Today this philosophy is referred to as the "Three Principles" (called "Sankoryo" in Japanese). Although more than 80 years have passed since the philosophy was codified, the spirit and values of Sankoryo remain alive and current today in MHI Group companies, both in their business dealings and their activities aimed to help society.

• We deliver reliable and innovative solutions that make a lasting difference to customers and communities worldwide.

• We act with integrity and fairness, always respecting others.

• We constantly strive for excellence in our operations and technology, building on a wide global outlook and deep local knowledge.