In Boris Akunin's novel, The Diamond Chariot, Erast Fandorin investigates the plot to assassinate Ōkubo but fails to prevent the assassination.
Other portraits followed in 1876, those of Ōkubo Toshimichi, Saigō Tsugumichi (younger brother of Saigō Takamori, who was Minister of the Navy and Home Minister), and William Chapman Ralston of the Bank of California.
Both Ōkubo Toshimichi and Itō Hirobumi called for the advice of German Chancellor Otto von Bismarck; his advice convinced the Meiji leaders of the necessity for a militarily and economically strong Japan and nationalism in order to preserve independence.