Japan Through the Looking Glass

Takes us on an exploration into various aspects of Japanese society from the most public to the most intimate. This work includes a series of investigations which uncover the multi-faceted nature of a country and people who are even more extraordinary than they seem.

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Our journey encompasses religion, ritual, martial arts, manners, eating, drinking, hot baths, geishas, family, home, singing, wrestling, dancing, performing, clans, education, aspiration, sexes, generations, race, crime, gangs, terror, war, kindness, cruelty, money, art, imperialism, emperor, countryside, city, politics, government, law and a language that varies according to whom you are speaking. Clear-sighted, persistent, affectionate, unsentimental and honest - Alan Macfarlane shows us Japan as it has never been seen before.