Books, Films & Series to Understand Japan (Before You Come)
Japan is not difficult — it’s subtle.
Before visiting Japan, many travelers focus on places to see.
But Japan is better understood through stories, silence, and everyday life.
This curated selection of books, films, and TV series helps you understand:
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how people think and communicate
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why slowness matters
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what lies beyond the postcard version of Japan
These recommendations reflect the same philosophy behind Tanuki Stories:
less sightseeing, more understanding.
Hitchhiking with Buddha – Will Ferguson
A slow journey across Japan following the cherry blossom season, hitchhiking from south to north.
This book reveals rural Japan, quiet generosity, awkward silences, and patience — the Japan most travellers never see.
Ideal if you want to understand everyday life beyond big cities.
In Praise of Shadows – Jun’ichirō Tanizaki
A short but fundamental essay on Japanese aesthetics.
Explains why Japan values shadow over light, silence over noise, and imperfection over symmetry.
Lost Japan – Alex Kerr
An honest reflection on what Japan has preserved — and what it has sacrificed.
Essential to understand the tension between tradition, modernisation, and convenience.
Tokyo Vice – Jake
Adelstein
A deep dive into the darker side of modern Tokyo: crime, journalism, and power structures.
Useful to balance the idealised image of Japan.
Taboo, ambition, rebellion
Everyday lives, food
Crime, power, journalism
Freedom in simplicity
Social pressure, silence
Describe your image
Work, sweets, obsession
Describe your image
Routine, dignity, simplicity