In my opinion, Japan is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Its stunning landscapes, from majestic mountains to streets adorned with sakura trees, offer breathtaking views at every turn. This natural beauty is often mirrored in Japanese literature, resulting in some of the most poetically captivating books I have ever read. Today, I will share my top five books by Japanese authors.

MEN WITHOUT WOMEN 

BY HARUKI MURAKAMI

Starting this list off with a classic by Murakami himself: “Men Without Women” was my first Murakami book, and it did not disappoint. This anthology of seven short tales explores relationships, grief, and loneliness, particularly from the perspectives of men without women.

The strange and reflective aesthetic blends the commonplace with the mysterious, offering a refreshing perspective on heartbreak and pain. As someone who used to see these themes from a female perspective, reading them from another viewpoint was enlightening. Murakami’s captivating and poignant storytelling made each story even more compelling and heartbreaking.

BEFORE THE COFFEE GETS COLD 

BY TOSHIKAZU KAWAGUCHI

This was a book that was hard for me to put down. It’s part of a series, with the first book being “Before the Coffee Gets Cold” and the last being “Before We Forget Kindness.” This series of novels centers on themes of love, sorrow, and regret, set in a Tokyo café where time travel is possible under strict rules.

The series reminds readers to treasure the present while learning from the past, depicting human connections and the passage of time. It made me ponder what I would do or say to my loved ones if I could travel back in time, even briefly, despite the café’s many rules. The books have their perks and cons, but they taught me to be more expressive with my love towards those around me and more appreciative of my surroundings and time.

THE TRAVELLING CAT CHRONICLES 

BY HIRO ARIKAWA

This book impacted me deeply and stirred my emotions profoundly. As a fellow cat lover who once couldn’t imagine life without my cat, “The Travelling Cat Chronicles” by Hiro Arikawa fed into my fears even more. The story follows Nana, a wandering cat, and Satoru, his owner. Narrated from Nana’s point of view, it provides a unique insight into her feelings and thoughts. The tale, with its heartwarming yet poignant ending, explores themes of love, friendship, and embracing life’s changes. Reading it from a cat’s perspective was especially heartbreaking. I couldn’t hold back my tears, so be sure to have a box of tissues ready when you dive into this touching story.

DAYS AT THE MORISAKI BOOKSHOP 

BY SATOSHI YAGISAWA

This book inspired me to write this article. I was taken aback by how beautifully written it is. Despite being a light read, it carries deep meaning and had a significant impact on me. The charming “Days at the Morisaki Bookshop” by Satoshi Yagisawa is set in the Jimbocho area of Tokyo. The narrative centers on Takako, a young woman experiencing personal and professional hardships who seeks comfort in her uncle Satoru’s vintage bookstore. The story explores themes of self-discovery, healing, and the reassuring influence of books. This book healed parts of me that I never realised needed healing, which is why I have been highly recommending it to those around me.

HEAVEN 

BY MIEKO KAWAKAMI

I haven’t had the chance to read this book yet, but I’m eager to dive in. I’ve come across numerous glowing reviews of both the author and this particular work, so my expectations are sky-high. “Heaven” by Mieko Kawakami delves into the lives of two Japanese teenagers grappling with the scourge of bullying. The story follows a fourteen-year-old protagonist who endures relentless torment like his friend Kojima. Through their journey, the novel delves into themes of resilience, companionship, and the harsh realities of solitude. It promises to be a poignant exploration of life’s challenges and the power of human connection to navigate them.

One of the small blessings in my life is the opportunity to delve into books across various genres and by diverse authors. This journey has significantly shaped the person I am today. Reading has been instrumental in broadening my perspectives, fostering a more diverse mindset, and aiding me in making well-rounded decisions. It’s taught me the value of being open-minded. Additionally, beyond its intellectual benefits, reading serves as a form of self-care, offering moments of escape, reflection, and rejuvenation.

BTW, I also wrote some article about self-care. Click on this article if you are interested to know more.