Japan: Between Myth and Reality

This work, written by an ex-Ambassador to Japan, is a first-hand account and observation of the various aspects of Japanese society — political, historical, social and economic. It introduces themes such as Japanese religions and the political system, as well as describing and explaining many of the country's rich traditions. The author's personal experiences of Japan are interspersed with historical tales and factual details, providing an insight into Japanese behavior, thinking and way of life.

This book will be immensely useful to those who wish to gain a deeper knowledge and understanding of the Japanese mind. It is the result of a four-year stay in Japan by the author, a Singaporean ex-Ambassador and politician.

Contents:

1. Xu-Fu and The Bittersweet Sino-Japanese Relations;
2. Emperor Hirohito;
3. Sumo Wrestlers;
4. The Myth of Nihongo; Utilitarian "Gods";
5. Japanese Characteristics and Lifestyles;
6. The Miracle of Japan's Economic Recovery;
7. Corridors of Power;
8. Japan's Defence and Rearmament.

About the author:

Lee Khoon Choy was Singapore's Ambassador to Japan from 1984 to 1988. He has also served as Ambassador to Korea, Indonesia, Egypt, Yugoslavia, Pakistan, Lebanon and Ethiopia. Mr Lee worked as a journalist in Malaysia and Singapore before entering politics in 1959. He then pursued a distinguished political career in Singapore, including serving as Senior Minister for both Foreign Affairs and for the Prime Minister's Office. In 1990 Mr Lee was awarded the "Distinguished Service Order" by the Singapore Government for contributions towards the establishment of the nation. He is the author of four books, which have been translated into Chinese and Japanese.

Cover design: A painting of Mount Fuji by the author