5 Japanese Literary Gems to Add to Your To Be Read List

New to Japanese literature? Start your journey with five novels we consider true literary gems

Words Julia de Armas
Cover Art Jennefer Sneddon
Feb 21, 2024

As we journey through the pages of Japanese literature, we're witnessing an undeniable surge in its popularity. Haruki Murakami and Sayaka Murata stand as luminary figures, guiding this genre into the mainstream with their captivating narratives that blend the surreal with the everyday. However, they’re not alone in this literary revolution. More authors have been stepping onto the scene, each weaving their unique threads into the rich tapestry of Japanese storytelling.

Why, you may ask? Perhaps it's the allure of the unfamiliar, beckoning readers into a world where culture and imagination intertwine seamlessly. Or perhaps it's Japanese literature's knack for challenging conventions, presenting straightforward slice-of-life narratives on social norms, politics, relationships, identity, and death—universal themes that resonate across borders, drawing us closer to the essence of the human experience.

Whether you’re a newbie bookworm or an already avid aficionado looking to broaden your literary horizons, if Japanese works have yet to grace your reading list, we suggest adding a touch of Japan to your literary repertoire.

Here’s our handpicked selection of what we think is the perfect starting point for exploring this occasionally eccentric yet captivating genre.

Before the Coffee Gets Cold
By Toshikazu Kawaguchi Translated by Geoffrey Trousselot

Find the marriage of sorrow and solace in "Before the Coffee Gets Cold," a worldwide sensation selling over one million copies. Set in a magical café where time travel is possible, this enchanting tale blends magical realism with a poignant narrative. Kawaguchi's portrayal of heartbreak and longing is subtle yet resonant, akin to a warm cup of coffee on a cold day. As the author reflects, “I was so absorbed in the things that I couldn’t change, I forgot the most important thing.”

Convenience Store Woman
By Sayaka Murata Translated by Ginny Tapley Takemori

Looking for a light and portable read that fits in your purse? "Convenience Store Woman," less than 200 pages, offers a delightful mix of dark comedy and comfort. Centered on a thirty-six-year-old woman, it pragmatically explores societal norms and the ostracization of those deemed “different.” This Sayaka Murata piece is perfect for a one-sit read, guiding you to self-discovery and what truly matters.

Tokyo Ueno Station
Yū Miri Translated by Morgan Giles

After the 2011 Fukushima earthquake, Yū Miri captured survivors' voices through her radio show, resulting in collaborative short novels. "Tokyo Ueno Station" follows the ghost of a homeless man navigating a dark afterlife, packing a political punch that highlights poverty and working-class struggles. It’s harsh, unapologetically honest, and brilliant.

Norwegian Wood
By Haruki Murakami Translated by Jay Rubin

Haruki Murakami's novels are celebrated for navigating dark themes with warmth and wisdom. In "Norwegian Wood," Toru Watanabe's romantic encounters with Naoko and Midori are shadowed by the specter of death. Although gloomy and mournful, the now-major-motion picture can seem like a tight hug to those looking for one.

The Courage to Be Disliked: The Japanese Phenomenon That Shows You How to Change Your Life and Achieve Real Happiness
By Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga

There is unparalleled tranquility and strength in Japanese nonfiction. In "The Courage to Be Disliked," Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga emphasize personal choice: All you can do is choose the best path you believe in. This familiar favorite offers a breather from the weight of heavy fiction, providing a timeless exchange of wisdom between philosopher and youth.

The future of Japanese literature is promising, with its culturally rich stories poised to captivate readers for years to come. The new wave of writers will soon become a testament to the enduring power of storytelling to connect us across cultures and generations, inviting us to embrace the beauty and complexity of our shared humanity. If you happen to come across any of these Japanese titles, it's definitely worth giving it a chance.