Bibliography
If you want to know where I get my facts (other than from the online dailys in my links page) then look no further than this paltry selection of half-digested Japan books! Occasionally, when I've exhausted all other forms of distraction, messing about on the internet, renting videos and DVDs, sitting aimlessly in coffee shops and sleeping, I have turned to a book:
Culture and Custom:
1.) Getting along with the Japanese - Kate Elwood (2001)
Now, if I'd actually practiced what I'd read...full of loads of useful advice to help get past that first wave of culture shock, and avoid making those horrible mistakes that you've heard all about.
2.) Dave Barry does Japan - Dave Barry (1992)
As the title suggests, not really a terribly well researched book! An American comedian who took a whirlwind tour of Japan and then wrote a book! Expect it to reinforce all the cultural stereotypes and then some...however, quite funny sometimes.
Travel Writing
1.) Hokkaido Highway Blues - Will Ferguson
A JET participant who followed the migrating cherry blossom from Kyushu in the south to Hokkaido in the north. Witty and sardonic view of Japan, and probably the most balanced piece of literature I've read. It neither condemns nor praises.
Travel Guides
1.) Lonely Planet
You can't really go far wrong with the Lonely Planet for honesty and an unbiased assessment of the worthwhile sights and experiences of Japan. Get the most recent copy - mine is only one year out of date and already many of the hotels, restaurants etc. have moved or shut down!
Critique
1.) Lost Japan - Alex Kerr (1996)
The author actually won a Japanese Litrature prize, so this must be a fairly accurate represntation of the stagnation and disappearance of Japan's traditionnal arts (Kabuki, Noh Theatre, Tea Ceremony, Calligraphy etc). Quite depressing, but essential reading.
2.) Dog and Demons - Alex Kerr (2001)
Building on the first book. This is possibly the most depressing book I've read in my life. However, its pretty much gospel truth, as the results of the forces that he writes about are apparent all round me. Kerr tackles environmental destruction, uglification of the cities, bureacracy and orgaised crime, education (military conditioning) and a stagnant economy. He describes the headaches of the future, such as a rapidly aging population and system heading for collapse.
Send E-Mail to: hudson_in_japan@hotmail.comCopyright © 2005 . All Rights Reserved