The Obsessed: Otakus, Tribes, and Subcultures of Japan

“Some Japanese stories end violently. Others never end at all, but only cut away, at the moment of extreme crisis, to a butterfly, or the wind, or the moon.”—Brian Phillips Visitors from the West look with amazement, and sometimes concern, at Japan’s monolithic social structures and unique, complex culture industry; the gigantic scale of its […]

Kyoto may be full of hushed streets steeped in tradition and hidden institutions run by kimono-clad custodians but don’t be fooled: there’s more to this captivating city than timeworn teahouses and graceful geiko. Japan’s former capital has its own distinct identity, dialect and dishes, and beyond the Buddhist temples and Zen gardens you’ll find a […]

A celebration of the endlessly fascinating and culturally rich country of Japan, this book from the Monocle team is packed with insights and fully illustrated with stunning photography. Monocle’s latest book is an ardent paean to Japan, covering everything from design, architecture, and culture to food, fashion, and current affairs. Since it launched in 2007, […]

It would take a lifetime to get to know every facet of Tokyo—so large that it spreads as far as the eye can see. But look closely and you will find a city of exceptional charm and breathtaking efficiency. The Japanese capital is a fascinating tangle of opposites: the latest technology and traditional arts; crowded […]