Japanese Women

In Geisha, a Life, Mineko Iwasaki tells her story, from her warm early childhood, to her intense yet privileged upbringing in the Iwasaki okiya (household), to her years as a renowned geisha, and finally, to her decision at the age of 29 to retire and marry, a move that would mirror the demise of geisha culture. Mineko brings to life the beauty and wonder of Gion Kobu, a place that "existed in a world apart, a special realm whose mission and identity depended on preserving the time-honored traditions of the past."

The daughter of a Buddhist priest, Tsuneno was born in a rural Japanese village and was expected to live a traditional life much like her mother’s. But after three divorces - and a temperament much too strong-willed for her family’s approval - she ran away to make a life for herself in one of the largest cities in the world: Edo, a bustling metropolis at its peak. With Tsuneno as our guide, we experience the drama and excitement of Edo just prior to the arrival of American Commodore Perry’s fleet, which transformed Japan.

The Japanese Art of Shinrin-Yoku: A Woman’s Guide to Forest Bathing for Stress and Wellness Life today is fast-paced, chaotic, and often overwhelming—especially for women who balance careers, relationships, families, and personal growth. The demands of modern life can leave you feeling stressed, disconnected, and drained. But what if the solution to reclaiming your peace and well-being was as simple as stepping into a forest? Discover Shinrin-yoku, the Japanese practice of forest bathing. Rooted in centuries of Japanese culture and backed by modern science, Shinrin-yoku is a practice of...

An unforgettable true story of resilience, family, and chasing your dreams against all odds. In this poignant and inspiring memoir, Tani Hanes recounts the remarkable life of her grandmother, Mitsuko Ishikawa, who grew up in early 20th century Japan dreaming of independence and education. Mitsuko's steadfast determination carries her through an arranged marriage, raising children during wartime, and carving out an accomplished career as a midwife, nurse and ikebana master - despite a society that expected her to be only a dutiful wife and mother. Through lyrical prose and vivid detail, ...

Our culture tells parents there's one best way to raise kids: enroll them in a dozen activities, protect them from trauma, and get them into the most expensive college you can. If you can't do that, don't bother. How is that going? Record rates of anxiety, depression, medication, debts, loneliness and more. In Family Unfriendly, bestselling author and Washington Examiner columnist Timothy P. Carney says it's time to end this failed experiment in overparenting.

Unlock the Secrets to Vibrant Health and Longevity with the Timeless Wisdom of Okinawa Imagine a life where you feel more energized, balanced, and in tune with your body—without the stress of restrictive diets or rigid routines. The women of Okinawa, Japan, have been living this reality for centuries, thanks to their mindful approach to eating and living. At the heart of their longevity lies Hara Hachi Bu, the art of eating until you’re 80% full—a simple yet transformative practice that nurtures both the body and soul. In this engaging and empowering guide, you’ll uncover the ...