A Japanese cruiser is a type of warship that was primarily used by the Imperial Japanese Navy during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These ships were designed for various roles, including fleet protection, reconnaissance, and commerce raiding. Notable classes of Japanese cruisers include the Mikuma and Takao classes, which were known for their speed and firepower. Japanese cruisers played significant roles in key naval battles, such as the Battle of Tsushima in 1905 and during World War II. They were equipped with advanced technology for their time, including powerful artillery and torpedoes, making them formidable opponents on the seas.