100,000+ Books, Games & Puzzles in-stock πŸ‡³πŸ‡Ώ

Overnight NZ-wide delivery on in-stock orders πŸš€

Off the Beaten Tracks in Japan

A Journey by Train from Hokkaido to Kyushu
4.15 goodreads logo

Ratings/reviews counts are updated frequently.

Check link for latest rating.
( 52 ratings, 21 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
Off the Beaten Tracks in Japan by John Dougill explores Japan beyond its well-trodden tourist paths, delving into its hidden cultural and historical gems. The author takes readers on a journey through lesser-known locales, uncovering unique stories and experiences. This travelogue combines vivid descriptions with personal anecdotes, offering an immersive peek into the lesser-seen sides of Japan.
Read More
Format: Paperback / softback
$3999
AVAILABLE WITH SUPPLIER Ships from our Auckland warehouse within 4-6 weeks

Found a better price? Request a price match

Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You may enjoy this journey through Japan if you're intrigued by exploring hidden gems and lesser-known paths beyond the typical tourist trails. This book will appeal to you if you're interested in discovering unique cultural experiences and sights that showcase the country's rich history and natural beauty.

Book Hero thinking about your next read

Observations on the people, culture, and history of Japan from a long-time resident riding the rails along the less-traveled western coastline.

Stone Bridge Press

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description

Observations on the people, culture, and history of Japan from a long-time resident riding the rails along the less-travelled western coastline.

This journey the length of Japan takes the reader off the beaten tracks to explore some of the country's remoter regions along the Japan Sea - from Wakkanai in northern Hokkaido to Ibusuki in southern Kyushu - in a fascinating mix of travelogue, anecdote, and personal memoir.

At each of the thirty stops along the journey, the author, who has lived in Japan for thirty years, goes in quest of the spirit of place, determined to highlight what makes it special. Mixing comments on landscape and culture, the author was inspired by Alan Booth and Donald Richie and brings a contemporary perspective to his writing.

The text provides some practical information on travel by rail and railway lines, but goes into far more depth and personal observation than a conventional guidebook for tourists.

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

*i>Off the Beaten Tracks in Japan, a 2023 Foreword INDIES Book of the Year Gold Winner for Travel, has been praised for its engaging and informative blend of history, culture, and personal observations. Reviewers highlight John Dougill's ability to immerse readers in Japan's distinctive cultural tapestry, showcasing both its everyday charm and unique encounters. The book is noted for its joyful and detailed exploration of Japan, offering an erudite perspective with literary finesse.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781611720822

Publisher: Stone Bridge Press

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 21 December 2023

Country: United States

Imprint: Stone Bridge Press

Illustration: b/w photos with map

Audience: General / adult

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 15.0mm

Width: 152.0mm

Height: 229.0mm

Weight: 250g

Pages: 308

About the Author

John Dougill has lived in Kyoto since 1994, before which he taught at Kanazawa University. He is the author of several books about Japan, and his 2012 book, In Search of Japan's Hidden Christians, was hailed as "one of the most compelling and important books on Japan in recent years." He has run Writers in Kyoto for nine years, editing the website and overseeing the group's many activities. He also runs the Green Shinto blog.

Also by John Dougill

View all
  • Japan's World Heritage Sites
    Japan's World Heritage Sites presents the exquisite temples, shrines, gardens, castles, and natural wonders found throughout Japan which have now been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This new edition has a more convenient size and includes many newly-designated UNESCO sites including: Christian Sites in Nagasaki that tell the extraordinary story of Japan's Christians who continued to practice their faith in...
    Hardback
    $4500
    Elsewhere:
    $4999
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Zen Gardens and Temples of Kyoto
    This book presents a true journey into the heart of the Kyoto experienceβ€”one which brings you deep into the world of Kyoto's ancient Zen Buddhist culture. Kyoto's Zen heritage represents one of mankind's greatest achievements, recognised by the large number of temples, shrines, and gardens which have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Millions of visitors travel to Kyoto yearly...
    Paperback
    $3500
    Elsewhere:
    $3799
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow

More from Travel & Adventure

View all
  • The Salt Path
    The bestselling true story of the couple who lost everything and embarked on a journey not of escape but salvation, soon to be a major motion picture starring Golden Globe winning Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs. Just days after Raynor learns that Moth, her husband of 32 years, is terminally ill, the couple lose their home and their livelihood. With...
    Paperback
    $2700
    Elsewhere:
    $3000
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Lonely Planet Japan
    #1 Bestselling guidebook to Japan "Classic. Comprehensive. Crucial." - Library Journal Lonely Planet's local travel experts reveal all you need to know to plan the trip of a lifetime to Japan. Discover popular and off the beaten track experiences from visiting Yoshino for Japan's most famous cherry-blossom-viewing festival to sipping sake at a 300-year-old brewery in Niigata, and exploring the...
    Paperback
    $4100
    Elsewhere:
    $4499
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Maintenance: Of Everything
    The first in-depth exploration of maintenance and a powerful argument for its civilisational importance from the author of How Buildings Learn and creator of the Whole Earth Catalog. Maintenance is what keeps everything going. It's what keeps life going. Yet it's also easy to shirk or defer until the thing breaks, the system falters, and everything stops. The apparent paradox...
    Hardback
    $7999
    Available
    Ships in 4-6 weeks
  • Abroad in Japan
    The hilarious number one bestselling memoir from YouTube sensation Chris Broad, a Brit trying to assimilate into life in Japan as he unravels the wonders and eccentricities of one of the world's most mysterious cultures. When Englishman Chris Broad landed in a rural village in northern Japan, he wondered if he'd made a huge mistake. With no knowledge of the...
    Paperback
    $2500
    Elsewhere:
    $3000
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Cat's Tales
    Once upon a time, the enchanting creature that is the cat infiltrated our lives – and our folklore. Cats have a long association with the supernatural – from being worshipped as gods in ancient Egypt to vilified as witches’ familiars in Europe – and they appear in countless fairy tales throughout history. Every part of the world has its own...
    Hardback
    $3099
    Elsewhere:
    $3799
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • The Penguin Lessons
    Now a major film, this is the true story of an unlikely friendship between a flightless bird and a teacher out of his depth. When schoolteacher Tom Michell pulls a penguin from an oil slick off the coast of Uruguay, he has no idea what to do. Back at his apartment, Tom cleans him, but upon returning to the beach,...
    Paperback
    $2400
    Elsewhere:
    $3000
    (1)
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Rambling Man
    THE NUMBER ONE BESTSELLING HILARIOUS NEW BOOK FROM THE NATION'S FAVOURITE COMEDIAN, BILLY CONNOLLY "Being a Rambling Man was what I always wanted to be, to live the way I damn well pleased. I've met the weirdest and most wonderful people who walk the Earth, seen the most bizarre and the most fantastic sights - and I've rarely come across...
    Paperback
    $2299
    Elsewhere:
    $2799
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • On Sale
    22% off
    Lonely Planet Pocket Lisbon
    Lonely Planet's Pocket Lisbon is your guide to the city's best experiences and local life - neighbourhood by neighbourhood. Experience the city's most scenic tram routes, find the best pastΓ©is de nata and discover the winding backstreets of Alfama; all with your trusted travel companion. Uncover the best of Lisbon and make the most of your trip! Inside Lonely Planet's...
    Paperback
    $1800
    Elsewhere:
    $2499
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Cozy Bookshops: Colouring Book
    Cozy Bookshopsβ€”your ultimate escape into a world of bookish bliss and mindful relaxation in 46 adorable scenes, from the coziest book nooks. Wander labyrinthine bookshelves, sink into soft armchairs by roaring fireplaces, and lose yourself in snug, atmospheric corners. Escape, relax, and unwind with this colouring book for all skill levels and bring your own personality. The possibilities are endless!...
    Paperback
    $2000
    Elsewhere:
    $2299
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • On Sale
    22% off
    Lonely Planet Pocket Porto
    Lonely Planet's Pocket Porto is your guide to the city's best experiences and local life, neighbourhood by neighbourhood. Experience the historic Se cathedral, marvel at the stunning Palacio da Bolsa, and visit peacocks in Jardim do Palacio de Cristal, all with your trusted travel companion. Uncover the best of Porto and make the most of your trip! Inside Lonely Planet's...
    Paperback
    $1800
    Elsewhere:
    $2499
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Auto Biography
    From one of the world's most popular motor journalists, a highly entertaining, clued-up and panoramic guide to cars. A highly entertaining, clued-up and panoramic guide to cars by Mat Watson, the world's most followed car journalist on social media. Mat Watson knows everything there is to know about cars. In his 25-year career as a motor journalist, he has driven...
    Hardback
    $4600
    Elsewhere:
    $6000
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow
  • Brilliant Maps
    With a foreword by Tim Harford Which nations have North Korean embassies? Which region has the highest number of death metal bands per capita? How many countries have bigger economies than California? Who drives on the 'wrong' side of the road? And where can you find lions in the wild? Revelatory, thought-provoking and fun, Brilliant Maps is a unique atlas...
    Paperback
    $3799
    In Stock
    Ships tomorrow

Why buy from us?

Book Hero is not a chain store or big box retailer. We're an independent 100% NZ-owned business on a mission to help more Kiwis rediscover a love of books and reading!

Service & Delivery

Service & Delivery

Our warehouse in Auckland holds over 100,000 books, toys, board games and puzzles in-stock so you're not waiting for your order to arrive from overseas.

Auckland Bookstore

Auckland Bookstore

We're primarily an online store, but for your convenience you can pick up your order for free from our bookstore, which is right next door to our warehouse in Hobsonville.

Our Gifting Service

Our Gifting Service

Books make wonderful thoughtful gifts and we're here to help with gift-wrapping and cards. We can even send your gift directly to your loved one.