Into Japan

For those who grew up overseas, Japan's long history and complex social structures can seem inscrutable. Some naysayers even claim that outsiders can never really understand Japan. But this island nation, its people, and its systems are knowable, and for those who have made Japan their permanent home, gaining cultural literacy is a vital first step to full participation in society. Into Japan helps prepare the way by examining what Japan is and how it works. Its high-level overview of Japan's history and civic structures will help immigrants and tourists alike acquire the same background understanding of the nation that its citizens learned just by growing up here.

Part of the Understand in One Afternoon series, the book's five short chapters can be consumed in just a few hours. In that brief time, you will learn about Japan's history, its modern Constitution, its economy, and the key symbols and principles that residents need to know for effective civic engagement. Whether you arrived at Narita last week or have been a Tokyo denizen for decades, Into Japan will prepare you to be an informed, involved, and contributing member of one of the world's most fascinating and revered nations.