A Fantasy of Far Japan


Book Description




A Fantasy of Far Japan; Or, Summer Dream Dialogues


Book Description

Kencho Suematsu's 'A Fantasy of Far Japan; Or, Summer Dream Dialogues' is a captivating collection of enchanting and imaginative tales set in a unique literary context of early 20th-century Japan. The book seamlessly weaves together elements of fantasy and folklore, creating a rich tapestry of storytelling that transports readers to a world filled with mythical creatures and magical landscapes. Suematsu's lyrical prose and vivid descriptions immerse the reader in a dream-like state, where reality blends with the fantastical. The dialogues between the characters add depth to the narrative, inviting readers to contemplate the deeper meanings hidden within the stories. Suematsu's literary style is reminiscent of traditional Japanese storytelling, with a modern twist that makes the tales feel timeless and universal. Kencho Suematsu, a prominent Japanese diplomat and writer, drew inspiration from his cultural heritage and experiences to create this enchanting collection. His deep knowledge of Japanese folklore and literature shines through in the intricate details and motifs found within the stories. Suematsu's background as a diplomat provided him with a unique perspective on the intersection of culture, tradition, and imagination, which is evident throughout the book. I highly recommend 'A Fantasy of Far Japan; Or, Summer Dream Dialogues' to readers who enjoy immersive and thought-provoking storytelling. Suematsu's blend of fantasy, folklore, and cultural insights offers a delightful reading experience that will transport you to a world of enchantment and wonder.




Baron Suematsu in Europe during the Russo-Japanese War (1904-5) His Battle with Yellow Peril


Book Description

A companion volume to 'Baron Kaneko and the Russo-Japanese War' (Lulu.com, 2009), this book relates the story of Baron Suematsu's one-man campaign in Europe using the spoken and written word against the dangerous bogey of Yellow Peril which fueled European paranoia about China and Japan and their presumed sinister intentions of world domination. Kaneko and Suematsu had similar missions, though Kaneko who was sent to the United States was also tasked with persuading President Theodore Roosevelt to broker a peace settlement while Suematsu was more directly involved in the fight against Yellow Peril which originated in Europe. Kaneko was a lawyer with a knowledge of economics, while Suematsu was a historian with a literary bent. Both men were also politicians and close to the Meiji oligarch Ito Hirobumi. They were the two prongs of Japan's first ever public diplomacy initiative, and both succeeded to a considerable degree.




Reflections of the Japanese Education System in Britain


Book Description

This book explores British reflections of Japanese education between 1858 and 1914, by referring to accounts by British observers, derived from documentary sources such as newspapers, journal articles, published books, and official reports. Hiraoka argues that British attitudes and comments on Japanese education reflect concerns about their own education system. International economics and politics of the time, as well as the voices of the Japanese, are also taken into account. British interpretations of the advantages of Japanese education are explained with two seemingly contradictory views: traditions inherited in Japan, and modern institutions newly introduced using the Western model. The book illustrates how this dual view of Japan affected the rise and fall of British interest in Japanese education over half a century. It also explores a broad range of phenomena – educational reforms, legislation and practice, science networks, exhibitions, international trade, and military affairs – to observe how Japanese education was viewed by the British. It consults a wide range of primary sources, most of which are published or digitally archived. Shedding new light on the transnational history of the educational relationship between Japan and Britain, this book will be an attractive base for future researchers in the fields of history of education, cultural history, and comparative education.



















A Collector's Guide to Books on Japan in English


Book Description

Provides an invaluable and very accessible addition to existing biographic sources and references, not least because of the supporting biographies of major writers and the historical and cultural notes provided.