Beauty and Chaos

Tokyo Moments

Whether contemplating Tokyo’s odd-shaped bonsai houses, endless walls of bottles, pachinko parlors, chopstick ballet or the perilous habit of running for trains, the essays in Beauty and Chaos explore Tokyo from the inside to reveal its deeper meanings and show why Tokyo is the most amazing, confusing city in the world.

Starting with observations and ending with insights, these essays dig into the ever-present but overlooked slices and morsels of daily life in the world’s biggest city. In turns comic, philosophic, descriptive and exasperated, the essays in this collection won acclaim in Japan from Tokyo readers.

Beneath Tokyo’s perplexing exterior, there’s meaning to the frantic swirl. By untangling the contradictions of the city and opening inner connections, Tokyo emerges a fascinating place of chaotic commotion, but serene, human-scale beauty, too.

If you’re traveling to Tokyo, these essays open up the sense and significance of life in this fast-paced, high-rise megalopolis. If you’ve ever considered going to Tokyo, these essays will give you more reasons to go, and ways to consider the city when you’re there.

Originally published in Japanese, these essays are available in English for the first time. Part travelogue, part comparative culture, and all creative essay, Beauty and Chaos taps the mystery of Tokyo and lets the meanings flow.

What People Are Saying

“A cleareyed but affectionate portrait of a city that reaches beyond simple stereotypes. An elegantly written, precisely observed portrait of a Japanese city and its culture.” — Kirkus Reviews

 “A rare gem of exploration that holds the ability to sweep observer/readers into a series of vignettes that penetrate the heart of Tokyo's fast-paced world.” — Midwest Book Review

“The author's love for the city is evident in the manner in which he has explored the place and soaked up every small detail.” — Readers' Favorite

“The collection is masterful and unique.” — SPR Review

“He notices the kinds of things that might be taken for granted by the Japanese and overlooked entirely by visitors. These pieces feel flowing and natural.” — The Bookbag

Awards

Gold Award eLit Awards for Essays/Creative Non-Fiction
Gold Award Non-Fiction Author’s Association
Gold Award First Place Reader’s Favorite for Cultural Non-Fiction
Best Nonfiction Books of 2015 Doing Dewey