10 Best Japanese History Books UK 2024
Whether you’re interested in military history like the emergence of samurai warriors in medieval Japan or, modern topics such as the issue of national identity after World War II, there's something out there for you! Allow us to guide you through the main historical periods and share our favourite Japanese history books to buy online. Ready to start reading?
Quick List - Top Japanese History Books
Conrad Totman
The Perfect Pick for Readers at Any Level!
Christopher Harding
A Concise Yet Engaging Examination of Modern Japan
John Dower
Explores Japanese-American Relations and National Identity
Marius B. Jansen
Logical, Thorough, and Suitable for History Newbies
A recommendation service that carefully researches each product and consults with experts across many disciplines. We are constantly creating new content to provide the best shopping experience from choosing ‘cosmetics’ to ‘food and drink’, ‘home appliances’ to ‘kids and baby’ products, reaching users all across the United Kingdom.
How to Choose a Japanese History Book in the UK – Buying Guide
When choosing a book on Japanese history, you’ll want to make sure you pick something that’s not only informative but is also enjoyable to delve into. Before you begin browsing, take some time to determine your reading level and which topics interest you the most.
Find a Book to Suit Your Level of Knowledge
Whether you’re a novice or an aficionado when it comes to Japanese history, finding a book that's suitable for your level of knowledge is crucial. We're here to help you select a read that's just right!
Beginner’s Guides and Quick Overviews Are Ideal for Those With a Casual Interest
Those who want a quick read that they can casually enjoy alongside a cup of coffee can't go wrong with this type of book!
More Advanced, Academic Texts Will Benefit Students and Serious Learners
Of course, academic tomes are generally longer and more expensive than beginner's guides, but they'll give you a much deeper understanding of Japanese history!
Which Period of Japanese History Are You Looking To Learn About?
As there are so many different periods of Japanese history, you may feel overwhelmed when browsing books on the subject. You might even want to focus on one particular era, especially if you're doing research for an essay or a school project. In this section, we'll cover the main periods - from prehistoric times to the present day.
Ancient (Jōmon and Yayoi)
As you may expect, not many books are dedicated specifically to these eras and those that are tend to fall into the category of art history or archaeology, as there was a rich culture of ceramic and textile production during these times. In fact, the earliest Japanese pottery that has been discovered by archaeologists is from Jōmon!
If you want to learn more about the everyday life of ordinary people though, you'll need to seek out a book that provides an overview of Japanese history instead - these should have at least one section on the Jōmon and Yayoi periods.
Classical (Nara and Heian)
The majority of general history books will cover these periods since they are essential for understanding the rise of Japanese popular culture. Chapters specifically about Heian society are likely to thrill fiction fans, as they discuss how the influence of the Imperial court led to the production of literature that still captivates readers to this day.
Medieval (Kamakura and Muromachi)
The subsequent Muromachi period (1336-1573 AD) was characterised by constant conflict between the different Japanese states and saw the infamous feudal lord Oda Nobunaga overthrowing the government - an event which historians describe as the first step towards the unification of Japan.
Books focused on these eras hence discuss military strategies and battles, particularly those of the samurai. The provincial wars during these periods also tend to be covered in most general Japanese history texts.
Feudal (Edo/Tokugawa)
Since this period was such a fantastic time for culture, most general history books cover it. Some more specialised texts look at the lives of ordinary people during this time too, giving you an insight into the bustling world of Edo.
Restorative (Meiji)
If you’re keen to learn about modern history and how Japan became Westernised during the Meiji Restoration, then we definitely recommend picking up a book that covers this period!
The 20th Century (Taishō, Shōwa, and Heisei)
Lastly, we move into more recent history: the 20th century. The very short Taishō period (1912-1926) produced famous writers such as Tanizaki Jun’ichirō and Akutagawa Ryūnosuke, while the Shōwa period (1926-1989) was characterised by the outbreak of the Second World War in the latter half.
Hence, most books about the Shōwa period examine Japan’s role in World War II, as well as the country’s occupation by American forces. Since these are controversial historical events, we should mention that it’s important to be aware some authors may be biased about certain issues.
In the following Heisei era (1989-2019), Japan experienced an exceptionally high rate of economic growth, but this “bubble economy” soon collapsed. Heisei also saw the global rise of Japanese popular culture such as television, fashion, and video games. If contemporary Japanese economic and cultural history interests you the most, you should start here!
Deciding on a Format to Suit Your Lifestyle
Own an eReader like a Kindle or a Fire tablet? Digital versions of books tend to be much cheaper than physical copies and you can even highlight sentences in them if you're doing research for a project.
Audiobooks are also a fantastic option for those who learn best through listening, or people who like to multitask rather than sitting down with a book - you can hear all about samurai battle tactics while you're tackling the washing up!
10 Best Japanese History Books in the UK
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Conrad Totman 1. A History of Japan (Second Edition) – Conrad Totman | | The Perfect Pick for Readers at Any Level! | |
2 | Christopher Harding 2. Japan Story: In Search of a Nation, 1850 to the Present – Christopher Harding | | A Concise Yet Engaging Examination of Modern Japan | |
3 | John Dower 3. Embracing Defeat: Japan in the Aftermath of World War II – John Dower | | Explores Japanese-American Relations and National Identity | |
4 | Marius B. Jansen 4. The Making of Modern Japan – Marius B. Jansen | | Logical, Thorough, and Suitable for History Newbies | |
5 | Amy Stanley | | Provides an Intimate Account of Edo Life | |
6 | Donald Keene | | An Illuminating Portrait of the Meiji Period | |
7 | Herbert P. Bix 6. Hirohito and the Making of Modern Japan – Herbert P. Bix | | The True Story of Japan’s Most Controversial Emperor | |
8 | Karl Friday 7. Samurai, Warfare and the State in Early Medieval Japan – Karl Friday | | An In-Depth Look at Japanese Warrior Culture | |
9 | Jonathan Clements 8. A Brief History of Japan: Samurai, Shogun and Zen, the Extraordinary Story of the Land of the Rising Sun – Jonathan Clements | | Compact Enough to Take on Your Travels | |
10 | William Wayne Farris 10. Japan to 1600: A Social and Economic History – William Wayne Farris | | A Short but Detailed Guide to Early Japanese Society |
Conrad Totman1. A History of Japan (Second Edition) – Conrad Totman
The Perfect Pick for Readers at Any Level!
As this is a large volume that might be tricky to read cover to cover, Totman has divided it into four sections - each corresponding to Japan’s main eras. These sections are then split into further subsections, meaning that readers can easily flip to a period that interests them. The accessibility of this book, combined with the sheer range of topics covered, makes it our top pick!
Christopher Harding2. Japan Story: In Search of a Nation, 1850 to the Present – Christopher Harding
A Concise Yet Engaging Examination of Modern Japan
Concise yet full of fascinating information, this book is essential reading if you want to learn more about modern Japanese history. It’s also a very affordable option, so you won’t break the bank in your quest for knowledge!
John Dower3. Embracing Defeat: Japan in the Aftermath of World War II – John Dower
Explores Japanese-American Relations and National Identity
Dower’s work is meticulously researched, with many photographs and illustrations. Whilst sympathetic to the hardships faced by Japanese citizens, Dower is also refreshingly critical of the government’s part in this suffering. This book is therefore ideal for those who want an unbiased analysis of how the American occupation affected Japanese society.
Marius B. Jansen4. The Making of Modern Japan – Marius B. Jansen
Logical, Thorough, and Suitable for History Newbies
Although this is quite a long read, Jansen covers a wide range of historical periods and discusses numerous topics in remarkable detail. We love that this book is structured in a logical format, making it an uncomplicated read for newcomers to the subject.
Provides an Intimate Account of Edo Life
Amy Stanley's book, which was published this year, provides readers with an intimate insight into life for lower-class women during the Tokugawa period. Based on the diaries and letters of Tsuneno, the daughter of a Buddhist priest, it follows her journey from the countryside to the bustling capital city of Edo, now known as Tokyo.
This ambitious account not only takes you through Tsuneno's personal trials and tribulations, but it allows readers to time-travel back to 19th century Edo - a world of creativity where literature and theatre were used as a form of protest against the Tokugawa government. Those looking to enhance their knowledge about life and art under shogunal rule can't go wrong with this riveting read!
An Illuminating Portrait of the Meiji Period
While many books have been written about the Meiji Restoration, few have delved into the story of the Emperor Meiji himself - who was the first Japanese ruler to ever meet a European! Renowned scholar Donald Keene's painstaking research explores every aspect of Meiji's life, especially the clash between his personal commitment to peace and the emergence of Japan as a modern, militarised state.
This is another hefty tome with over 900 pages, so it probably won't interest casual readers. For those eager to learn more about one of the most pivotal periods of Japanese history though, this book is just the ticket!
Herbert P. Bix6. Hirohito and the Making of Modern Japan – Herbert P. Bix
The True Story of Japan’s Most Controversial Emperor
At almost 900 pages, this is a rather lengthy book and we find it rather surprising and disappointing that it lacks a bibliography. Nevertheless, this book is highly recommended for those who wish to deepen their understanding of Japanese wartime history.
Karl Friday7. Samurai, Warfare and the State in Early Medieval Japan – Karl Friday
An In-Depth Look at Japanese Warrior Culture
One minor criticism of this text is that it could benefit from more illustrations and diagrams, to enhance the reader’s understanding of military weapons and strategies. Despite this, Friday’s book is very insightful and will appeal to anyone wanting to learn more about the samurai.
Jonathan Clements8. A Brief History of Japan: Samurai, Shogun and Zen, the Extraordinary Story of the Land of the Rising Sun – Jonathan Clements
Compact Enough to Take on Your Travels
Whilst this simplified version of history won’t be suitable for students or researchers, it’s perfect for younger readers or for travellers on their first trip to Japan. The paperback version is even compact enough to slot into your backpack, or you can download the audiobook to listen to on your travels!
William Wayne Farris10. Japan to 1600: A Social and Economic History – William Wayne Farris
A Short but Detailed Guide to Early Japanese Society
Since this text only goes up to the 17th century, it's very specific and unfortunately doesn't cover most of the major events in later Japanese history. Still, it's a good choice if you're passionate about ancient history and archaeology!
More Non-Fiction Books to Help You Learn About the World
If you're keen to expand your knowledge of the world even further, we've got more great book recommendations for you! Click the links below to see our favourite non-fiction reads about politics and Black history.
Summary
Whether you’re new to Japanese history or looking to expand your existing knowledge, we’re certain that our recommendations will help you to find the best book for your needs. Once you start reading, you’ll become a history buff in no time!
Author: Nicola McClements
Top 5 Japanese History Books
No. 1: Conrad Totman｜1. A History of Japan (Second Edition) – Conrad Totman
No. 2: Christopher Harding｜2. Japan Story: In Search of a Nation, 1850 to the Present – Christopher Harding
No. 3: John Dower｜3. Embracing Defeat: Japan in the Aftermath of World War II – John Dower
No. 4: Marius B. Jansen｜4. The Making of Modern Japan – Marius B. Jansen
No. 5: Amy Stanley｜
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.