4 Essential Books About Japan: Walk Into the Heart of the Land of the Rising Sun

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Japanese literature is rich and diverse, yet not always appreciated by Western readers due to its distinctive storytelling approach, which can sometimes feel disconcerting compared to what we're accustomed to. But it's precisely this cultural clash that makes it almost addictive: its freshness.

1. Convenience Store Woman – Sayaka Murata – 2019

"Convenience Store Woman" is a curious book, typical of Oriental literature. In it we meet Keiko Furukura, a 36-year-old unmarried woman (a dire situation in Japan at that age), who has never had a partner and works at a konbini, a traditional 24-hour Japanese convenience store, where students or housewives needing extra income typically work.

   Keiko has never fully integrated into society and finds her happy place in the routine of the convenience store. But her definition of happiness does not align with that of a society imposing rules she has no intention of following.

Through Keiko's eyes, we can see a subtle critique of Japanese social pressures on women and how many are pushed to meet absurd expectations.

2. Kokoro – Natsume Sōseki – 1914

In our short list of books about Japan, this novel could not be missing. "Kokoro" addresses profound themes such as loneliness, isolation and emotional connections. The plot follows the relationship between an unnamed university student and his mentor, known as "Sensei".

The first part focuses on the student's perspective, revealing his fascination with Sensei, while the second part, narrated by Sensei himself, offers deeper insight into his thoughts and experiences.

The term "Kokoro" in Japanese means "heart" or "spirit", and throughout the novel, the complexity of human emotions and the difficulty of understanding others' feelings are explored. The story addresses universal themes such as alienation, loss, and the search for meaning in life, becoming a work of profound introspection and reflection.

3. The Chrysanthemum and the Sword – Ruth Benedict – 1946

This work, "The Chrysanthemum and the Sword", immerses itself in an anthropological analysis of Japanese culture, especially during the period preceding and encompassing World War II.

   The book explores Japanese cultural duality, represented by the chrysanthemum, symbolizing societal life and structure, and the sword, embodying military strength and discipline. Benedict examines how these forces shaped Japanese society, influencing concepts such as loyalty, duty, and the relationship with authority.

A notable element is the foreign perspective from which Japanese culture is examined, highlighting cultural differences and their impact on how Japan approached war and international relations.

4. WA – The Japanese Way to Harmony – Laura Mesina – 2020

Among my favourite books about Japan, WA is certainly one of them.

WA is a different kind of book, difficult to explain.

   In Japanese, 'Wa' means not only harmony, but evokes much more. It is the essence of gentleness, serenity and moderation, but also embraces everything that is Japanese. This term is used as a prefix to describe things and concepts.

   Through 'Wa', Japan imparts a precious lesson: beauty, joy and civility are built through continuous personal effort and commitment. Practising patience, doing things with care and never at the expense of others are fundamental, because lasting happiness is a collective project, not an individual one.

   WA takes us on a journey through seventy-two words that symbolize and embody the essence of Japan, seventy-two like the stations in the ancient Japanese lunar calendar, which every five days offers the opportunity for renewal, a cycle that reflects the constant pursuit of rejuvenation and connection with nature in Japanese culture.

WA is more than a book, it's an experience.

If you'd like to discover Japan on Foot, you'll find some interesting travel proposals on our website.

Were you familiar with these 4 books about Japan? Have you read them? 

If you enjoyed this post, let us know in the comments and we'll prepare a second part 😉

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