A Short History of Japan by Christopher Harding (Pelican Books)
Pelican Books: A Short History of Japan by Christopher Harding is a concise introduction spanning several millennia of Japanese history. It connects major changes, from early communities and Buddhism to empire-building, with aspects of society and culture such as food, theatre and architecture.
At a glance
- Covers Japan’s history over several millennia, from early coastal communities through cultural change and empire-building.
- Pairs broad historical developments with details of everyday culture, including ceramics, theatre, food and architecture.
- The listing describes this as an introduction that considers Japan’s own view of its past and values.
Often bought together
Pros and cons
Pros
- A 240-page format offers a compact route through a broad historical span.
- The subject matter combines political and social history with cultural examples, rather than focusing only on major events.
Technical specifications
9 specifications| Publisher | Pelican |
|---|---|
| Publication date | 4 Sept. 2025 |
| Edition | 1st |
| Language | English |
| Print length | 240 pages |
| ISBN-10 | 0241563194 |
|---|---|
| ISBN-13 | 978-0241563199 |
| Dimensions | 14.5 x 2.5 x 22.5 cm |
|---|---|
| Weight listed | 340 g |
Who is it for?
A good fit for
- Readers seeking a concise introduction to Japanese history and society.
- Readers interested in how cultural practices relate to historical change.
Less suited to
- Readers looking for a detailed specialist account of a single period or topic.
Customer reviews on Amazon
- 5 stars
53% 53% - 4 stars
42% 42% - 3 stars
4% 4% - 2 stars
0% 0% - 1 star
1% 1%
Aggregate ratings lean positive, with most ratings in the four- and five-star categories and a small share at the lower end. Without written feedback, the figures do not show what readers praised or criticised. They offer only a broad indication of reception, not evidence about how clearly the book handles its wide historical and cultural scope.
Frequently asked questions
What period of Japanese history does the book cover?
The listing says it traces Japan’s history over several millennia, from early coastal communities through developments including Buddhism, the rise of warlords and Japan’s empire-building.
Does it discuss culture as well as historical events?
Yes. The listing describes discussion of subjects such as ceramics, theatre, food and architecture in relation to broader historical change.
How long is the book?
The listed print length is 240 pages.
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