Japan — Between Myth and Reality

This work, written by an ex-Ambassador to Japan, is a first-hand account and observation of the various aspects of Japanese society — political, historical, social and economic. It introduces themes such as Japanese religions and the political system, as well as describing and explaining many of the country's rich traditions. The author's personal experiences of Japan are interspersed with historical tales and factual details, providing an insight into Japanese behavior, thinking and way of life. This book will be immensely useful to those who wish to gain a deeper knowledge and understanding of the Japanese mind. It is the result of a four-year stay in Japan by the author, a Singaporean ex-Ambassador and politician.

Contents:

• Xu Fu and the Bittersweet Sino-Japanese Relations
• Emperor Hirohito
• Sumo Wrestlers
• The Myth of Nihongo, The Utilitarian “Gods”
• Rich Country, Poor People — Japanese Characteristics and Lifestyles
• The Miracle of Japan's Economic Recovery
• Corridors of Power
• Japan's Defence and Rearmament
• Index

Readership: General.