Description
Book Synopsis: Isabella L. Bird's voyage to Japan in the 1870s reveals a country steeped in ancient customs and a rugged landscape of beautiful, flowing hills and country pathways. As of the first Western women to author a book about the Japanese islands, Isabella Bird was keen to relay her observations as accurately as she could manage. The isolationist policy of Japan, which forbade any foreigners from travelling inland, had only recently been lifted. Bird was thus able to witness the urban culture of Tokyo and the rural areas surrounding it, together with the large, northerly island of Hokkaido.
The author offers her observations of the architecture and customs of the native Japanese, and later the Ainu minority ethnic group. Northern Japan's rural culture is revealed as being enormously different from the modern society the world knows today. Modern residents or aficionados of Japan will however recognize many surviving hallmarks, such as the supreme hospitality and generally well-mannered behavior of the locals.
Despite hailing from and exhibiting the values of the condescending culture of Victorian England, Bird manages to relay a good impression of Japan prior to its rapid modernization in the 20th century. Her views reflect their time; although she had a Japanese translator and guide as a companion, she was unable to grasp the social graces of the area, and acutely felt herself an outsider. She does not lapse into despondency however; instead, she by turns indulges in good-natured mockery of Japan's insular society.
Details
Are you a lover of travel and history? Unbeaten Tracks in Japan is the perfect book to take you on an adventure through time and across the breathtaking landscapes of Japan. Written by Isabella L. Bird, one of the first Western women to author a book about Japan, this remarkable travelogue captures the essence of Japan in the 1870s. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions, beautiful countryside, and unique customs of a Japan that stands as a testament to its glorious past.
Isabella Bird's firsthand observations offer a rare glimpse into a Japan that was just opening its doors to the rest of the world. Discover the bustling urban culture of Tokyo as well as the untouched beauty of rural areas and the enchanting island of Hokkaido. Experience the architecture, customs, and people of Japan through Bird's keen eye and descriptive prose. This book is a treasure trove of historical knowledge and an appreciation of the world's oldest surviving monarchy.
Unbeaten Tracks in Japan allows you to witness the stark contrast between the modern society we know today and the rural culture of northern Japan in the 1870s. Despite the cultural differences, you'll be amazed by the timeless values shared by the Japanese people, such as their hospitality and well-mannered behavior. Bird's accounts will transport you to a bygone era, while unveiling the endurance of Japanese traditions that still resonate with contemporary residents and aficionados of Japan.
As a product of Victorian England, Bird's perspective is refreshingly honest, yet she manages to maintain a positive outlook on Japan. Though faced with the challenge of being an outsider, she takes it in her stride, even indulging in good-natured mockery of Japan's insular society. Join Bird on her adventure through Unbeaten Tracks in Japan and discover a world that has influenced the modern Japan we know today, all from the comfort of your own home.
Dive into the vivid imagery, captivating stories, and insightful observations within Unbeaten Tracks in Japan. Experience the wonders of a long-lost era and gain a deeper understanding of Japan's cultural heritage. Don't miss out on this extraordinary journey. Start exploring Japan's past now by purchasing your copy.
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