Japan ─ The Basics

Japan: The Basics, is an engaging introduction to the culture, society and the global positioning of Japan. Taking a fresh look at stereotypes associated with Japan, it provides a well-rounded introduction to a constantly evolving country. It addresses such questions as:

‧ How do we go about studying Japan?

‧ What are the connections between popular culture and wider Japanese society?

‧ How are core values about identity formed and what are their implications?

‧ How does Japan react to natural and manmade disasters?

‧ How does nature influence Japanese attitudes to the environment?

With exercises and discussion points throughout and suggestions for further reading, Japan: The Basics is an ideal starting point for all those studying Japan in its global, cultural context.

Christopher P. Hood is a reader in Japanese Studies at Cardiff University, UK. He is the author of Dealing with Disaster in Japan: Reponses to the flight FL123 Crash (2011) and Shinkansen: From Bullet Train to Symbol of Modern Japan (2006), also published by Routledge.