The Japan Society
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The Japan Society Review

The Japan Society Review is published on a quartely basis, both online and printed (members are entitled to receive a copy by post). Since the starting of the publication in 2006, each issue covers a selection of Japan-related books and films, as well as theatre and stage productions, tv series and exhibitions. Its purpose is to inform, entertain and encourage readers to explore the works for themselves.

The Japan Society Review is possible thanks to the work of volunteers who dedicated their time and expertise to help us to promote the learning and understanding of Japanese culture and society.

Issue 53 (October 2014, Volume 9, Number 5)

Issues (PDF)

Issue 53 (October 2014, Volume 9, Number 5)

In issue 53, we again provide a wide range of reviews across many aspects of Japanese culture. We consider an overview of Japan from a broad range of perspectives.

Issue 52 (August 2014, Volume 9, Number 4)

Issues (PDF)

Issue 52 (August 2014, Volume 9, Number 4)

In this issue of the Japan Society Review, we focus on five books and a film.

Issue 51 (June 2014, Volume 9, Number 3)

Issues (PDF)

Issue 51 (June 2014, Volume 9, Number 3)

In this third issue of 2014, we are pleased to bring a broad range of reviews on a diverse selection of topics and genres to the fore.

Issue 50 (April 2014, Volume 9, Number 2)

Issues (PDF)

Issue 50 (April 2014, Volume 9, Number 2)

In this issue we are in a self-reflective mood with our main theme actually being our regular reviewers and the Japan Society Review itself. To mark the occasion, we have an article by each of our current key contributors with pieces mainly focusing on contemporary issues.

Issue 49 (February 2014, Volume 9, Number 1)

Issues (PDF)

Issue 49 (February 2014, Volume 9, Number 1)

In this first issue of 2014, we focus on Japan’s wartime Thai- Burma Railway which has recently been in the spotlight following the release of the internationally acclaimed movie The Railway Man.

Issue 48 (December 2013, Volume 8, Number 6)

Issues (PDF)

Issue 48 (December 2013, Volume 8, Number 6)

While preparing our final issue of 2013, it was with deep sadness that we learnt of the passing of Sir John Whitehead, distinguished former British Ambassador to Japan (1986 to 1992) and much respected former chairman of the Japan Society (2000 to 2006). We dedicate this issue to his memory.

Issue 47 (October 2013, Volume 8, Number 5)

Issues (PDF)

Issue 47 (October 2013, Volume 8, Number 5)

October’s issue is themed around family and our reviewers explore recent books and films that deal with familial relationships; their joys, troubles and complications.

Issue 46 (August 2013, Volume 8, Number 4)

Issues (PDF)

Issue 46 (August 2013, Volume 8, Number 4)

In this sumptuous issue we alter our trajectory a little by adding some new dimensions to our review offerings.

Issue 45 (June 2013, Volume 8, Number 3)

Issues (PDF)

Issue 45 (June 2013, Volume 8, Number 3)

This issue focuses on a selection of Japanese writers in translation, from the current poster-boy of Japanese fiction, Haruki Murakami, to the rarely translated historical novelist, Shiba Ryōtarō.

Issue 44 (April 2013, Volume 8, Number 2)

Issues (PDF)

Issue 44 (April 2013, Volume 8, Number 2)

In this issue we remember and mark the second anniversary of Great East Japan Earthquake (東日本大震災) which occurred on Friday 11 March 2011.