The Encyclopedia of Contemporary Japanese Culture

This is a fascinating new Encyclopedia which covers from the end of the Imperialist period in 1945 right up to date to reflect the vibrant nature of contemporary Japanese society and culture.
In this work, the term Japanese culture is defined very broadly to include geographical, political, and economic influences. Coverage starts after the end of the Imperialist period in 1945 and is brought right up to date to reflect the changing nature of Japanese society and culture. Western cultures are no longer the only ones which have an influence outside their own country and the influence of Japanese technology, design and purchasing power is evident on a global scale. Entries range from short factual entries to 2,000 word essays and capture the key elements of what makes this captivating culture so universally influential. Areas covered include: literature; performance; film and video; mass media; visual arts; architecture; fashion and design; music; education; intellectual life; rituals and ceremonies; religion; politics; economy; sport; food and drink; history; society; medicine; and special features. The work includes the discussion of immigrant communities and the practice of cultural traditions overseas e.g martial arts and Zen. Entries are extensively cross-referenced to help lead readers from one subject to another. Longer entries are "facts fronted" to enable the rea