Books to read if you can't afford to travel to Japan
It feels like everyone is jetsetting at the moment, making fun holiday plans to escape the Melbourne winter. But if you can't afford international flights, don't despair! A) because you're not alone, I'm stuck here too, and B) because you can still get a taste of travel with the right books.
Like many people, I've been fixated on the idea of travelling to Japan recently, and fortunately there's a wealth of books available about and from that very place! From gentle, cosy reads that feel like finding the perfect cafe on a chilly day; to insightful nonfiction that will show you a new perspective on everything from blockbuster movies, to Japan's criminal underbelly; and even recipe books to bring the tastes of Japan to your table – this list has it all! So put aside social media and FOMO, and instead pickup a new book to tide you over until you can take off.
Fiction that will transport you to Japan
If you're looking for a cosy read to keep you warm until spring, these are the books for you! These gentle stories are perfect for fans of Before the Coffee Gets Cold and will give you the joy of a relaxing holiday with none of the expense.
Days at the Morisaki Bookshop by Satoshi Yagisawa, translated by Eric Ozawa
Hidden in Jimbocho, Tokyo is a booklover's paradise, where twenty-five year old Takako is surprised to encounter new worlds within the stacks of books.
The Travelling Cat Chronicles by Hiro Arikawa
Nana is a cat on a road trip, not sure where he is going. But all that matters is that he's sitting beside his beloved owner, Satoru.
What You Are Looking for is in the Library by Michiko Aoyama, translated by Alison Watts
This charming Japanese novel shows how the perfect book recommendation can change a reader's life.
If 'cosy' isn't what you're looking for, try one of these compelling novels. There's a tender love story, an unusual protagonist and interwoven narratives that will sweep you from Tokyo to the Japanese countryside and back again.
Strange Weather in Tokyo by Hiromi Kawakami, translated by Allison Markin Powell
A tale of modern Japan and old-fashioned romance.
Convenience Store Woman by Sayaka Murata, translated by Ginny Tapley Takemori
Meet Keiko. Keiko knows what makes her happy, and she’s not going to let anyone come between her and her convenience store…
Four Seasons in Japan by Nick Bradley
A gorgeously crafted book-within-a-book about literature, purpose and what it is to belong.
Eye-opening nonfiction about Japan
If fiction isn't your thing, or you want to learn a little more about the country you're fantasising about, these nonfiction titles are perfect for you. Learn about groundbreaking Japanese animation, the underbelly of city life, and pockets of culture off the beaten track.
Anime Through the Looking Glass by Nathalie Bittinger
The magic and mastery of Japanese animation springs to life in this gorgeous celebration of the genre.
Hidden Japan by Alex Kerr
These engaging essays shine a light on lesser-known places around Japan, where pockets of traditional culture can still be found.
Tokyo Vice by Jake Adelstein
A firsthand, revelatory look at Japanese culture from the underbelly up.
The Shortest History of Japan by Lesley Downer
Lesley Downer takes the reader through the great sweep of Japanese history, focusing on the dramatic stories of the colourful characters who populate it.
Get the taste of Japan
Complete your stay-at-home holiday with easy-to-make Japanese cuisine. Whether you're a keen chef, or are more interested in a cocktail while waiting for sushi to be delivered, we've got titles that will give you a taste of Japan at home. And don't forget that as well as making CIBI's approachable recipes at home, they have a beautiful cafe and design store in Melbourne you can visit, to at least get out of the house...
Vegan JapanEasy by Tim Anderson
Tim Anderson taps into Japan’s rich culture of cookery that’s already very nearly vegan, so there are no sad substitutes and zero shortcomings on taste.
The Way of the Cocktail: Japanese Traditions, Techniques, and Recipes by Julia Momosé & Emma Janzen
With its studious devotion to tradition, craftsmanship, and hospitality, Japanese cocktail culture is an art form treated with reverence.
Ramen by Makiko Sano
With slurpable noodles, umami broths and colourful customizable toppings, this unique comfort food can be endlessly adapted.
CIBI by Meg Tanaka & Zenta Tanaka
CIBI is a book on home-style Japanese cooking inspired by the eponymous Melbourne cafe, with simple recipes to share with with family and friends.
