Japan Bibliography

The Books We Enjoyed and Learned the Most From

Learning to Bow                                                       Bruce Feiler

This was our very favorite book on living in Japan.  It’s funny and full of useful information. Bruce Feiler has since had several books on the bestseller list.

36 Views of Mount Fuji                                            Cathy N. Davidson

This is a beautiful account of living in Japan.  Since she was in the same area as we were, it was of particular interest to us.

Polite Lies                                                                  Kyoko Mori

The truths of this book became more evident the longer we lived in Japan.  It is an in-depth insight into the underlying differences between the Japanese and American cultures.

Max Danger (and More Max Danger)                     Robert J. Collins

Unfortunately these are out of print, but they are the funniest descriptions of life in Japan we found.  Look for used copies of them on the online bookstores.

The Samurai’s Garden                                             Gail Tsukiyama

One of the most moving and beautiful books we ever read.  It captures the subtleties of Japanese thinking besides being a touching story. 

Memoirs of a Geisha                                                            Arthur Golden

There is a good reason this spent so much time on the best seller list.  It’s a well-told story.

Dave Barry Does Japan                                           Dave Barry

An off-center take on Japanese customs.  We related.

31 Months in Japan – The Building of a Theme Park

                                                                                    Larry K. & Lorna Collins

Okay, we’re biased, but we tried to capture the experience of living in Japan. Our readers’ comments seem to indicate we did a pretty good job of it

Culture Shock! Japan                                              P. Sean Bramble

Not for the casual traveler, this is for those who may be considering moving to the country and doing business there.

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