Welcome to my Books page!
In this page you find some of my favorite books about Japan. You will find a bit of everything, from travel guides to books that dive deep into different aspects of the Japanese culture. I’ll try to keep this page updated with the best books I’ll find, but keep in mind that these are not the only great books in the market. You are very likely to find some other excellent books that are not referred here. 😉
Rice, Noodle, Fish: Deep Travels Through Japan’s Food Culture
A complete book about the Japanese culinary culture from the Western perspective and true food journey, focusing on different regions with their own recipes. This book is not a normal travel guide, but it has very useful information focusing on Japanese food only.
Lonely Planet Tokyo (Travel Guide)
A complete guide focusing on Tokyo. It has all the information you need about what to visit, the opening hours, contacts, and websites and also some useful tips to make your travel easier. I love the highlights and itineraries, and specially the color maps to help you out.
Lonely Planet Japan (Travel Guide)
This complete guide includes information from Tokyo, Mt Fuji, Kyoto and the Kansai area, Hiroshima, Hokkaidō, Kyūshū, Okinawa and much more. All with the typical Lonely Planet layout with full-color maps, insider tips, highlights, and reviews.
Lonely Planet Kyoto (Travel Guide)
If you search one of the best travel guides for Kyoto, this is the one. All the information you need about Kyoto in one place with clear instructions and reviews. Full color maps for easy navigation.
The Japanese Mind: Understanding Contemporary Japanese Culture
This is a great book to understand the Japanese culture whether you’re traveling to Japan or just curious about the culture. It treats different aspects of the Japanese society, from gift giving to social obligation and even the unspoken language.
A Geek in Japan: Discovering the Land of Manga, Anime, Zen, and the Tea Ceremony Mind: Understanding Contemporary Japanese Culture
A beautiful and complete guide to Japan from the eyes of a geek, but not limited to geeks. This is a very complete guide that shows different aspects of the Japanese culture and has helpful information of what to see in Japan. All perfectly illustrated with colorful pictures.
Haikyo: The Modern Ruins of Japan
This is an amazing book that illustrates pretty well abandoned places in Japan. These incredible, and sometimes shocking, images make us realize that were are creating plenty of modern ruins. Definitely a good book to take a look at the dark side of Japan.
Cool Japan Guide: Fun in the Land of Manga, Lucky Cats and Ramen
This is a cute, fun guide about Japan. Not really for deep planning of your trip, but more helpful for a cultural adjustment. Since it has plenty of images, it is also great for children and teenagers.
Japan – A BBC Documentary Collection
An impressive audiobook that talks about the world’s third-largest economy, a land of complexity, contrast, and contradictions. Between ancient heritage and innovation, Japan is certainly an outstanding country.
Abroad in Japan (podcast)
A remarkable podcast from the YouTube channel with the same name. If you want to know more about Japan, this podcast is a great choice.