In this issue we introduce books we feel are essential reading to understand the great capital city of Tokyo. From historical reads and memoirs by English language authors Edward Seidensticker, John Nathan and Ian Buruma, to contemporary Japanese authors Banana Yoshimoto, Hiromi Kawakami, Ryu Murakami and Haruki Murakami, this selection of books brings together old Edo and modern Tokyo. We also introduce exploratory fiction, two new cutting edge guides to Tokyo shops and restaurants as well as new and upcoming releases you won’t want to miss! Our interview explores Tokyo’s neighborhoods with foodie author and style guru Jane Lawson. Lastly, we introduce a brand new section called “New Writing” located at the bottom of this page, which features work by up-and-coming writers, authors and translators.