Best Books About Japan

A young Japanese girl's diary washes up on a remote island in the Pacific Northwest, and a writer named Ruth finds it amidst debris from the 2011 tsunami. As Ruth reads through the diary, she becomes invested in the mystery of Nao's fate. Meanwhile, Nao recounts the story of her great-grandmother in the diary, as she grapples with bullying, despair, and watching her parents struggle. A Tale for the Time Being is a poignant, fascinating novel about life, death, and the lasting impact of our stories.

Discover the mysteries of Japanese culture with this iconic guide created for fans of "cool culture". A Geek in Japan is packed with personal essays and hundreds of photographs, presenting traditional and contemporary touchstones in an entirely new way. Explore the Japanese language, social values, daily habits, business, technology, arts, symbols, and practices, all while debunking myths and answering nagging questions. This revised and expanded edition includes new pages on Kyoto, Japanese architecture, video games, and "secret" places to visit in Japan. Join the ranks of Japanophiles around the world with this irreverent, insightful, and highly informative guide.

Discover a heart-warming and profound story about love, tragedy, and the power of the kitchen in contemporary Japan. In this enchanting novel, two young women navigate life's ups and downs while finding comfort in the kitchen and their own improvised family. Written by an acclaimed Japanese author, this touching tale will leave you feeling deeply affected and longing for the warmth of a home-cooked meal.

Discover the enchanting world of Japanese culture, history, and landscape with this vividly personal account. Follow the author's journey as he retraces his initiation into Tokyo's boardrooms and explores the hidden valley that became his home. While the book showcases the beauty of Japan, Kerr also shares his concerns for its environmental and cultural destruction. Winner of Japan's Shincho Gakugei Literature Prize and fully revised in a new edition, this book is a must-read for Japanophiles and anyone interested in a unique travelogue.

This classic masterpiece of Japanese literature is a must-read for fans of early novels. Written by Lady Shikibu Murasaki in the 11th century, The Tale of Genji follows the life and loves of the prince known as "the shining Genji." But this novel is far more than just a romance - it presents finely drawn characters in realistic situations, set against a richly embroidered tapestry of court life. Vibrant in poetry and subtle in social and psychological observations, this work is an exquisite portrayal of a decaying aristocracy. Fans of Don Quixote and Remembrance of Things Past won't want to miss out.

Follow Keiko Furukura, a Tokyo convenience store worker, as she struggles to fit in with society's expectations of what a "normal person" should be. For 18 years, Keiko has found peace and purpose in her store's well-defined rules and routines. But pressure from family and friends to find a husband and career push her to take drastic measures. Sayaka Murata's award-winning novel delves into the pressures of modern work culture and offers a delightful portrait of a unique and endearing heroine.

A college student in Tokyo navigates the complexities of love and loss after the tragic death of his best friend. As he adapts to campus life and faces isolation, he finds himself drawn to a fiercely independent woman. Norwegian Wood captures the essence of 1960s ethos through a touching coming-of-age story.

An unlikely connection forms between a thirty-eight-year-old office worker and her former high school teacher, thirty years her senior. As their relationship blossoms through the changing seasons, readers witness the power of both companionship and loneliness. From sake to cherry blossoms, Hiromi Kawakami's gentle hints at the passage of time make for an emotional read.

Discover the flavors and culture of Japan with Rice, Noodle, Fish. Written by Matt Goulding, this innovative travel guide is a mix of in-depth narrative and insider advice, showcasing Japan's extraordinary food culture through 195 stunning color photographs. Goulding takes readers on a 5000-mile journey through Japan's noodle shops, tempura temples, and teahouses, exploring seven key regions and their culinary specialties. This is not your typical guidebook; Rice, Noodle, Fish is a rare blend of inspiration and information, perfect for any traveler or food lover looking to delve into the heart of Japan's unique culinary scene.

A math Professor with only 80 minutes of short-term memory forms a beautiful relationship with his astute Housekeeper, who cares for him daily. Despite his condition, the Professor's mind is still alive with elegant equations from the past, revealing a poetic universe to the Housekeeper and her son. This enchanting story explores the power of living in the present and the unique connections that can form a family.