Journey Through Japan

This stunning travel pictorial highlights the fascinating culture, art, architecture, and people of Japan. The nation of Japan is a diverse mixture of seething metropolises and peaceful temple complexes, of the most advanced in high technology and primitive folk festivals, of kimonos and business suits. Despite or even because of these contradictions, outsiders find the island nation unusually fascinating. Although Japan is the most Westernized of Asian nations, it still retains its own identity. material and spirituality, gaudiness and simplicity, noise and silence intermingle, forming an exquisite dreamlike creation. Symbols and rituals count as important foundations of the modern state. The past lives on in tea ceremonies and ikebana, in sumptuous temple celebrations and joyful festivals. More than 180 pictures illustrate the many facets of a nation existing somewhere between the past and the future. Four special sections report on the aesthetics of eating, the pleasures of hot baths, the little-known snow country to the north and the peculiarly Japanese fusion of art and craft.

One author's personal odyssey through the jazz scene in Japan

'A memorable, oddly beautiful book' Wall Street Journal 'A marvellous glimpse of the Japan that rarely peeks through the country's public image' Washington Post One sunny spring morning in the 1970s, an unlikely Englishman set out on a pilgrimage that would take him across the entire length of Japan. Travelling only along small back roads, Alan Booth travelled on foot from Soya, the country's northernmost tip, to Sata in the extreme south, traversing three islands and some 2,000 miles of rural Japan. His mission: 'to come to grips with the business of living here,' after having spent most of his adult life in Tokyo. The Roads to Sata is a wry, witty, inimitable account of that prodigious trek, vividly revealing the reality of life in off-the-tourist-track Japan. Journeying alongside Booth, we encounter the wide variety of people who inhabit the Japanese countryside - from fishermen and soldiers, to bar hostesses and school teachers, to hermits, drunks and the homeless. We glimpse vast stretches of coastline and rambling townscapes, mountains and motorways; watch baseball games and sunrises; sample trout and Kilamanjaro beer, hear folklore, poems and smutty jokes. Throughout, we enjoy the wit and insight of a uniquely perceptive guide, and more importantly, discover a new face of an often-misunderstood nation.

Step back into old Japan with this fascinating travelogue of the famous Kiso Road, an ancient route used by samurai and warlords The Kisoji, which runs through the Kiso Valley in the Japanese Alps, has been in use since at least 701 C.E. In the seventeenth century, it was the route that the daimyo (warlords) used for their biennial trips—along with their samurai and porters—to the new capital of Edo (now Tokyo). The natural beauty of the route is renowned—and famously inspired the landscapes of Hiroshige, as well as the work of many other artists and writers. William Scott Wilson, esteemed translator of samurai philosophy, has walked the road several times and is a delightful and expert guide to this popular tourist destination; he shares its rich history and lore, literary and artistic significance, cuisine and architecture, as well as his own experiences.

Are you dreaming of embarking on a life-changing adventure in Japan? "Journey to Japan" is your ultimate companion to navigate the intricate process of moving to and living in this culturally rich and captivating nation. Whether you are an aspiring expatriate, a student seeking higher education, or an adventurer seeking new horizons, this comprehensive guide provides you with the insights, tools, and resources to make your transition to Japan a seamless and rewarding experience. Journey to Japan takes you on a captivating exploration of the country's fascinating history, diverse culture, and awe-inspiring natural landscapes. From the iconic cherry blossom festivals and vibrant summer matsuri to the serenity of Zen meditation and the intricate art of sushi-making, this book delves into the essence of Japan's unique way of life. Chapter by chapter, you'll delve into the practical aspects of planning your move to Japan, from understanding visa requirements and budgeting financial considerations to researching accommodation options and employment opportunities. Learn the nuances of Japanese language and cultural etiquette, and discover the most effective language learning methods to facilitate your integration into daily life. With invaluable tips on navigating essential services, such as healthcare, transportation, banking, and grocery shopping, you'll be equipped to thrive in your new environment. Discover the best strategies for building a supportive network, making genuine connections with the local community, and embracing Japan's diverse lifestyle and traditions. The journey doesn't end there—celebrate your growth, honor your experiences, and reflect on your unforgettable moments in Japan with practical advice for saying goodbye and embracing the next chapter of your life. Engage with the cultural richness, explore the beauty of Japan's arts and traditions, and maintain a sustainable lifestyle as you continue your journey beyond borders. Journey to Japan is more than just a guidebook; it's your companion for an extraordinary voyage. Embrace the wonders of Japan as you embark on a life-changing expedition filled with self-discovery, personal growth, and unforgettable memories. Take the first step on your adventure today, and unlock the door to a world of possibilities in the Land of the Rising Sun.

Reproduction of the original: Two Youths in A Journey To Japan and China by Thomas W. Knox

A VIBRANT, MEDITATIVE WALK IN SEARCH OF THE SOUL OF JAPAN Traveling by foot through mountains and villages, Alan Booth found a Japan far removed from the stereotypes familiar to Westerners. Whether retracing the footsteps of ancient warriors or detailing the encroachments of suburban sprawl, he unerringly finds the telling detail, the unexpected transformation, the everyday drama that brings this remote world to life on the page. Looking for the Lost is full of personalities, from friendly gangsters to mischievous children to the author himself, an expatriate who found in Japan both his true home and dogged exile. Wry, witty, sometimes angry, always eloquent, Booth is a uniquely perceptive guide. Looking for the Lost is a technicolor journey into the heart of a nation. Perhaps even more significant, it is the self-portrait of one man, Alan Booth, exquisitely painted in the twilight of his own life.

An introduction to the history, geography, culture, and people of Japan.