A Journey of Discovery Through Japan's Multi-Faceted Customs and Culture

An excellent book for anyone with an interest in Japanese culture

Sunday Telegraph

Takes in everything from the mythical roots of sumo to the ubiquity of Shinto shrines

The Times

Alan Macfarlane first encountered Japan full of certainty, confidence and unexamined assumptions. He soon found his preconceptions challenged on every front - as generations of visiting travellers have found themselves, too.

In this fascinating and endlessly surprising book, Macfarlane takes us on an exploration of every aspect of Japanese society, from the most public spaces to the most intimate realms, uncovering the great depths and multi-faceted nature of the country and its people.

Clear-sighted yet affectionate, Macfarlane shows us Japan as it has never been seen before and, in the process, helps us to see our own world anew.