On the Search of Yamato - Essays on Japan

Tokyo's main station, the kabuki theatre, 100 Yen shops, Yamato - the old Japan and cradle of Japanese culture. Takarazuka musicals, Japanese midsummer festivals, sumo tournaments or geishas - these are only a few themes covered in these knowledgeable and fascinating essays.

After 15 years of living in Tokyo, the author describes authentic features of Japanese daily life. We understand why quiet, unassuming Japanese movies such as S. Tetsuo's 'Breath In-Breath Out' can provide greater insight about Japan than any number of books on the country. This collection of essays does not aim to be a travel guide in the traditional sense, but provides a fascinating first hand glimpse of modern, yet traditional, Japanese life.