Hidden Japan

Alex Kerr travels to various remote and lesser-known places in Japan to discover the wonders that still remain. His essays describe surprising remnants of Japan's fragile physical and cultural environment, including avant-garde Butoh dancing, shochu liquor, kaiseki meals, and anecdotes relating to his childhood. Kerr's sharp eye for detail and exquisite descriptions will inspire readers to think more carefully about their own traditions and environment.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 05 September 2023
Publisher: Tuttle Publishing

In his captivating books, Lost Japan and Dogs and Demons, Alex Kerr vividly portrayed the gradual disappearance of Japan's traditional landscapes, which had become his beloved home over many years. However, in his latest offering, Hidden Japan, Kerr embarks on a remarkable journey of rediscovery, seeking to uncover the wonders that persist amidst the changing tides.

Originally published in Japanese as a passionate plea to safeguard the vanishing remnants of Japan's rich and ancient culture, Hidden Japan chronicles Kerr's travels to various remote and lesser-known locations where pockets of traditional culture still thrive. Some of these destinations are geographically distant, such as Aogashima Island, situated 200 miles south of Tokyo, while others are easily accessible, like the revered Mii-dera temple just east of Kyoto.

Within the pages of this captivating book, ten engaging essays unfold, revealing surprising remnants of Japan's fragile physical and cultural environment. From avant-garde Butoh dancing in the remote village of Tashiro in Akita Prefecture to the intricate process of distilling shochu liquor from tropical ferns on the Pacific island of Aogashima, Kerr's vivid descriptions transport readers to the heart of this unique land.

Furthermore, the book delves into the intricacies of kaiseki meals, showcasing the art of composing exquisite dishes using local herbs and meats in rural Tottori Prefecture. Anecdotes from Kerr's childhood in Japan, coupled with his deep passion for restoring old houses, add a personal touch to his storytelling, resonating with readers who have already fallen under the spell of his unique perspective on Japan.

Kerr's sharp eye for detail and exquisite descriptions of Japanese arts, architecture, and foods inspire and educate readers who seek to appreciate the reality of Japan beyond the romanticized notions. His personal involvement and genuine love for his subjects encourage us all to reflect more deeply on our own traditions and environment, and to challenge ourselves to seek better solutions for preserving the treasures that surround us.

Hidden Japan serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of Japan's culture, reminding us that even in the face of change, there is always beauty and wonder to be found. It is a call to action, urging us to embrace our heritage and work together to create a sustainable future for generations to come.

Weight: 312g
Dimension: 203 x 130 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9784805317518