On Japan

Author: Yu Xinqiang
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2005-05-01
Features: This book is another by the renowned patriotic painter Yu Xinqiang. It presents a panoramic view of the two thousand-year history of Sino-Japanese relations, depicting a moving historical tapestry. This book is China's first political and illustrated edition, compiled to commemorate the 60th anniversary of the victory in the Anti-Japanese War. It is a book that every Chinese person should read. The author, Yu Xinqiang, is a top-tier Chinese animator. "On Japan" was created after the author was deeply shaken by the right-wing Japanese cartoonist Koji Kobayashi's "Taiwanron". Over the course of a year, Yu Xinqiang searched for historical materials and devoted himself entirely to creating this monumental illustrated work that offers a folk perspective on understanding Japan, often hailed as the "Asian version of The Chrysanthemum and the Sword". On Japan is a painting theory that examines Japanese history, culture, and national spirit from a comprehensive and objective standpoint. The book features over 600 meticulously crafted, exquisitely detailed, and bold-lined illustrations, each delivering a visually striking image and representing key terms of Japanese history and culture. From a folk perspective, it presents a comprehensive and objective portrayal of Japanese cultural characteristics, exploring how Japanese customs, regions, cuisine, and spiritual practices have profoundly influenced the Japanese nation. In an accessible manner, it reveals Japan's dual nature as a nation that is both militaristic and aesthetic, arrogant yet respectful. The book provides a full depiction of the rise and fall of Japanese militarism, documenting Japan's ambitions over Asia and its naked aggression and plunder against China. It is foreseeable that this passionate and immersive On Japan will become one of the most characterful books in the publishing world this year. It is a must-read for every young person of every nation.