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introduction

The art of Japanese living

In the summer of 1853, four American ships sailed into Tokyo Bay, ending Japan’s 200 years of self-imposed isolation. The extraordinary, insular country they found immediately captured the world’s imagination, sparking a craze known as Japonisme that changed Western art and aesthetics forever. Today, Japan continues to fascinate and delight; a country of startling modernity and of ancient traditions, where elegant geisha, robe-clad priests, J-pop megastars, and visionary engineers all make up a part of the authentic face of Japan.

Be More Japan takes you on a journey of discovery by exploring the art of Japanese living: the delicate balancing act of holding onto timeless traditions while enjoying all the benefits of modern life and looking fearlessly into the future.

We invite you to absorb a little Japanese wisdom into your daily life by experiencing its kaleidoscope of contrasting pleasures— enjoy the fleeting beauty of the cherry blossoms, join in a raucous summer festival, savor the precision of the tea ceremony, belt out your favorite song at karaoke, or soak in a hot spring with a jaw-dropping view of Mount Fuji. There are countless reasons to fall in love with this beguiling country, and with Be More Japan, you’ll find even more excuses to travel again and again to the land where the sun rises.

D An apprentice geisha in Kyoto.