Dr. Nicos Rossides spent seven unforgettable years in Japan from the late 1970s, witnessing the country's emergence as a major player on the world stage. From a humbled post-war nation, Japan transformed into an economic powerhouse. Rossides observed this staggering growth, the subsequent "lost decade," and Japan's rebound as a significant global player, wielding soft power through its cultural exports while maintaining substantial economic influence.

Rossides eventually married into a Japanese family and developed a network of close Japanese friends and associates. Through a series of insightful analyses and personal anecdotes, the author offers readers multiple perspectives on Japanese culture and society. He presents a vivid portrayal based on his first-hand experiences, which he later processed into a layered narrative of cultural insights and observations.

This new edition builds upon the original work, offering fresh chapters and updated content that reflect the ongoing evolution of Japanese society. It showcases the author's multifaceted exploration of the complexities of Japanese cultural and social practices.