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Wanderings on the Japanese High Road: A Literary Pilgrimage

Reginald Cox

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Published in Samurai Trails: Wanderings On The Japanese High Road (TOYO Reference Series)

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Embark on a captivating literary journey with Percy F. Bicknell's timeless travelogue, "Wanderings on the Japanese High Road." First published in 1903, this seminal work offers a profound glimpse into the enigmatic world of early 20th-century Japan.

A Window into a Lost World

Bicknell's meticulously detailed account transports readers to a Japan on the cusp of modernity. Through his perceptive observations and engaging prose, he paints a vibrant portrait of a country steeped in ancient traditions yet yearning for progress. From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of the countryside, Bicknell immerses us in the sights, sounds, and scents of a rapidly changing nation.

Samurai Trails: Wanderings on the Japanese High Road (TOYO Reference Series)

by Bob Dennard

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2814 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	378 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

His encounters with ordinary people, from teahouse attendants to renowned scholars, provide intimate glimpses into the lives and customs of the Japanese people. Bicknell's keen eye for detail captures the essence of daily life, from the intricate rituals of tea ceremony to the lively festivals that celebrated Japan's rich cultural heritage.

Exploring Japan Beyond the Guidebooks

"Wanderings on the Japanese High Road" is not merely a travelogue but an exploration of Japan's soul. Bicknell ventures beyond the beaten path, visiting remote villages and engaging with locals in their native surroundings. He delves into the country's history, religion, and art, revealing the complexities and contradictions that define this enigmatic nation.

Through his insightful commentary, Bicknell challenges Western stereotypes of Japan, revealing a society that is both deeply traditional and surprisingly modern, both deferential and fiercely independent. His observations provide a valuable counterpoint to the often superficial accounts of Japan prevalent at the time.

A Literary Legacy

Over a century after its initial publication, "Wanderings on the Japanese High Road" continues to captivate readers with its enduring insights and timeless prose. It has become a cherished classic in the field of Japanese studies, offering a unique perspective on a country that has fascinated the world.

Bicknell's literary prowess shines through in his vivid descriptions and evocative language. His ability to capture the essence of a moment, a place, or a people makes this travelogue an immersive and unforgettable reading experience. The book has inspired countless writers and travelers, including Lafcadio Hearn and Christopher Isherwood, to explore Japan and share their own perspectives.

"Wanderings on the Japanese High Road" is an essential read for anyone interested in Japan, travel writing, or the human condition. It is a book that transports readers to a time and place that is both familiar and utterly foreign, a world that continues to intrigue and inspire generations of readers.

So embark on your own literary pilgrimage with Percy F. Bicknell as your guide. Allow yourself to be swept away by the beauty, the strangeness, and the profound humanity of Japan as seen through the eyes of a master storyteller. "Wanderings on the Japanese High Road" is a literary journey that will leave an indelible mark on your soul.

A Photograph Of Percy F. Bicknell, The Author Of 'Wanderings On The Japanese High Road,' Standing On A Bridge In Rural Japan. Samurai Trails: Wanderings On The Japanese High Road (TOYO Reference Series)