Ｍarket ⇧
A Guide to Japan’s Supernatural World
Japan’s Illustrated Encyclopedia of the Otherworld is a visual and cultural guide to Japan’s unique concept of the “ikay,” an unseen realm that exists alongside everyday life. The book explores how this Otherworld is embedded in Japan’s landscapes, traditions, and stories through four chapters: Spaces, Objects & Daily Life, Events, and Traditional Performing Arts.
Sacred mountains, shrines, bridges, crossroads, and water sites are presented as gateways to the unseen. Folk beliefs, taboos, seasonal events like New Year and Obon, and classical arts such as Noh and Bunraku reveal how the Otherworld shaped Japanese culture.
The book also reinterprets famous tales—Urashima Tarō, Momotarō, Shuten-dōji, Kaguya-hime—as journeys between realms, and includes a nationwide map of regional legends.
Rich illustrations and concise explanations make this an accessible introduction for global readers fascinated by mythology, folklore, and Japanese cultural history.
Who Will Read This Book?
Fans of Japanese culture／Yokai enthusiasts／People interested in other worlds／Researchers and students
Key Selling Points
- A comprehensive visual guide to Japan’s “Otherworld” beyond yokai
- A unique framework that organizes Japan’s supernatural world into four clear categories
- Reinterpretations of beloved folktales through the lens of mythology and anthropology
- High visual appeal through illustrations and maps
- Traditional Chinese edition (Taiwan), Porland edition: SOLD!
Benefits for Publishers
Strong fit for the global folklore/mythology boom with a uniquely Japanese angle.
Infomation
148×210mm
192pages
ISBN：9784906993987
Rights sold
Taiwan
Poland