Insight Guides Japan

This is a wonderful introduction to many aspects of Japanese culture and places in Japan. The book goes into detail enough to satisfy one's curiosity for the most part. As the edition I purchased is from 2012, some specific site information may be out-of-date, but that is not why I purchased the book: it was intended for my reference shelf. The many photographs balance well with the text and the binding holds up well over time. Sometimes opinionated and sometimes the information is inaccurate, but overall "insightful". Index is skimpy, though, and it is tough to find things (I'd recommend the table of contents versus the index). Recommended for any Japanophile.

I gave this book as a gift to someone about to travel to Japan as a tourist. His response: "Terrific! Huge help, glorious pictures, and does something different than the others -- Fodor's and Frommers may be encyclopedias of data about what, where, and when stuff closes... and of course necessary... but this provides stunning images, and great rhetoric and points of view about what's important and why, with also some bits of specific recommendations. But the package is really different, and a great balance. We were going to see a castle towards the end of the trip, and skip one small town, based on the way the other books kinda passed over it -- but then this book nailed it as something that really should be seen, with something like 80 acres (!!) converted into pedestrian-only artist areas, with museums, shops and studios! The others just didn't really focus on them. This book helped us decide to visit this town that they wouldn't otherwise stop in. A highly valuable guide and resource.

Excellent Guide to Japan. Only problem is it is heavy for travel! Would live for it to come both in print and Kindle version with videos attached.

I just purchased the book and would like to forewarn anyone who is about to do the same: maps come up very blurry, not readable. I tried to enlarge but the picture became even worse and you cannot read at all. Maybe it was tested on different devices, but not on the original Kindle Fire. I am very disappointed. Will try to use the book while in Japan, but my selection for the price(!) was based on the ability to reference maps and go back to the related text in two clicks. The imbedded map links work fine, but you can't see the maps, which defeats the purpose.

very good book and good information thank you

Needed it for school but I find the book interesting.

I am planning a trip to Japan next spring; after examining many guides, I am glad I bought this one. It's current, beautifully organized and well illustrated with nice photography. I never bought Insight guides before, but this one will not be my last.

beautiful pictures and so much information to gather but worth every penny

the book was useful at times and contained a good potted history of Japan, however it was a bit too heavy to want to carry around with you. Lots of glosssy double page pictures that are not useful when travelling and just add to size/weight.

Very informative if you are planning a trip to Japan. Well laid out and colourful.

Great ideas for planning itinerary for forthcoming holiday. Places on a 'must see' list and etiquette whilst in Japan.Well written and helpful ideas on most key locations.

This is the best guild book of Japan I have ever seen. I like it.

This book is perfect for planning a trip to Japan with excellent information and maps.