The ancient traditions, breathtaking scenery and vibrant culture of Japan continue to fascinate the world. In this beautiful volume, renowned National geographic photographic Michael Yamashita and long-time Japan resident, John Carroll, capture the rich variety that can only be found in "The Land of the Rising Sun." This celebration of Japan brings you exquisite images and never-before-seen insights that are an absolute joy to experience. This compelling photographic study by one of the world"s leading photographers will take you from country roads to the skyscrapers of its amoebae-like megacities, from meditation-inducing rock gardens to the other-worldly frenzy of communal festivals. Through initiation into their psychology, mores, and religious and artistic sentiments, you"ll learn something of what it means to be Japanese. CONTENTS: The Japanese Enigma * Traditional Japan * Modern Japan * Country Japan * A Nation of Aesthetes * The Soul of Japan