224 pages, 32 unnumbered pages of plates : illustrations (some color), maps ; 21 cm
Note
Originally published in Japanese as Nippon junrei.
Summary
"A call to preserve disappearing facets of Japan's rich and ancient culture, this book takes its inspiration from the 1960s classic, Hidden Hamlets by Shirasu Masako. Like Shirasu, Kerr travels to remote and lesser-known places around Japan where pockets of traditional culture can still be found. Some are faraway--like Aogashima Island, 200 miles south of Tokyo--while others are easy to reach, such as Mii-dera temple just east of Kyoto"--Publisher's description.
Contents
Hidden hamlets -- Tastes of the countryside -- Shinto and buddhist stones -- The origin of Butoh dance -- The luxury of nothing there -- Jurassic beach -- Old castle town -- Esoteric secrets -- Living on a volcano -- Return to the Misaki Houses.