Recent Non-Fiction Books About Japan That You Must Read
Looking for your next great read about Japan? Here's a selection of some of the best non-fiction books—from memoirs to culinary explorations—published in the 2020s.
The Mesmerizing Art of Munakata Shiko
A major retrospective looks at how "time" and "place" shaped famous 20th c. printmaker Munakata Shiko.
Sustainable Agriculture in Japan
PR Sustainable Development Goals
The initiatives, highlighted during Week for Sustainability and Sustainability Award-winning videos, convey how sustainability is an integral part of the Japanese agriculture, forestry, and fisheries sectors.
How to See Japan's Imperial Treasures
A little known museum in central Tokyo offers a peerless collection of Japanese art, and a fascinating glimpse into the elegant and cultured lives of Japan's Imperial Family.
Tokyo's Coolest Farmers Market: A Sustainable Community at UN University
Food & Drink Local Creators' Market
Tokyo's largest farmers market is a hub for regional produce, tasty street food . . . and ideas for building a better future
Life in Rural Japan: Three International Kochi Residents
More foreign nationals are finding their base in rural Japan. Here are the stories of three residents of nature-rich Kochi Prefecture.
Japan's Amazing DIY Superstores: From Cheap Urban Farming to Building a Home
Information Local Creators' Market
DIY has always been big in Japan. Now a number of stores cater to the creative in all of us, whether its gardening, interior renovation, crafts or even building your own house.
Shop for the Best Japanese Denim on Kojima Jeans Street
If jeans are your thing, the Japanese town of Kojima is calling. It's a major center of denim and jeans production, and Jeans Street is lined with over 30 boutiques that showcase the best of the best!
Okinawa's Top 5 Wellness Oils: Nature's Best-kept Secrets
Introducing some lesser known essential oils of the island of Okinawa, where the locals have long known that health is a harmonic state of body, mind and spirit.
Small Spaces, Part II: Japanese Ideas for Small and Tiny Homes
Traditional Japan Architecture
The second of a series on innovative, space-saving methods from traditional and modern Japanese architecture that can be used in any home, regardless of size.
Tokyo's Best Afternoon Tea Spots
Don your best frock and put your pinkies up! Here are some of the best places to have afternoon tea in Tokyo.
Fukui: A Self-Care Sanctuary Just A Train-Ride Away from Tokyo
With the post-Covid travel boom, Kyoto has become too crowded for temple-trotting and Wakayama's Koyasan is too far from a Tokyo travel base. Good thing that Fukui, Japan's ultimate power spot and zen haven, is so accessible!
Tokyo Midtown Yaesu: The City's Trendy New Dining/Shopping Spot
This new complex boasts high-end shops, gastronomic delights, prime office space and the first Japan outpost of Bulgaria Hotel.
Why I Love Imari Ware (and Want You to Love It Too)
Arts writer Alice Gordenker shares her appreciation for the Japanese porcelain that has captivated the world for more than 400 years.
The Perfect Weekend in Okayama
One of a series of Perfect Weekends in Japanese cities. Lovers of art, food, history, and nature will all find something to help them spend a fantastic weekend in Okayama.
5 Great Tokyo Cocktail Bars
Tokyo is known for its vibrant cocktail scene, with numerous bars offering unique and creative drink experiences. Here is our expert’s list of the city’s top 5 bars!
The City of Himeji: More than Just a Castle
Himeji is a major destination for many visitors to Japan thanks to its spectacular castle, but there is far more to experience in this compact city, filled with history, regional foods, and friendly locals!
An Ancient Japanese Legend Restored to View: Prince Shotoku in 8K
A new use of technology gives us better access to fragile treasures from Japan's past. See how, in a very special Tokyo museum.
Japan's Open Air Folk House Museum: Fascinating, Photogenic, Foreigner-Friendly
Historic homes and rural lifestyles are the focus of this sprawling outdoor museum near Tokyo.
Tsumugi Silk: Poor Man's Fabric Turned Luxury Folkcraft
Tsumugi silk is the result of a labor-intensive artistic weaving style that is prized for its supple softness and unique designs.
