About the Author

Spotlight on Japan Complete coverage of Japan's history and culture begins on page 506. The following features take a closer look at the most compelling aspects of Japanese culture. Master of the "Floating World" (page 138): The life and times of Katsushika Hokusai, the iconic illustrator and manga originator Samurai Spirits (page 166):Profiles of swordsmen superheroes from a bygone era Meet the Mascots (page 228): "Kawaii!" A guide to the cute characters that represent Japan Brew of the Gods (page 258): Sake, Japan's most delectable liquid asset, explained Ghosts & Goblins (page 294): Get down and dirty with creepy-crawlies from centuries of folklore Holy Houses (page 326): A primer to understanding the ins and outs of Buddhist temples and Shinto shrines Down the Hatch (page 362): Drink, eat, and be merry in izakayas - Japan's own gastropubs A Home for All Seasons (page 426): Form marries function in traditional homes from the Edo Era Fathers of the Modern Novel (page 530): A who's who of Japanese postwar literary masters