historical japanese fiction

Historical Japanese Fiction: Delve into the Rich Tapestry of Japan's Past

From soaring samurai epics to enchanting tales of feudal Japan, historical Japanese fiction offers readers a captivating glimpse into a bygone era. With its emphasis on honor, duty, and the delicate balance between tradition and change, this genre has captured the imaginations of countless readers around the world. In this article, we will explore some highly recommended historical Japanese fiction novels, renowned authors in the genre, and websites where you can discover more captivating stories set in Japan's past.

1. "Shogun" by James Clavell: One of the most popular historical Japanese fiction novels, "Shogun" takes readers on a journey to the 17th-century feudal Japan. This epic tale follows John Blackthorne, an English sailor shipwrecked in Japan, as he navigates the treacherous waters of samurai politics and cultural clashes.

2. "Memoirs of a Geisha" by Arthur Golden: Set in the first half of the 20th century, this best-selling novel offers a unique glimpse into the mysterious world of geishas. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Sayuri, readers are drawn into a world of beauty, artistry, and the complexities of geisha life.

3. "Musashi" by Eiji Yoshikawa: Inspired by the legendary samurai Miyamoto Musashi, this sweeping novel spans decades as it follows Musashi's journey from a young warrior to a renowned sword master. Yoshikawa's vivid prose and attention to historical detail make this a beloved epic in the genre.

4. "The Tale of Genji" by Murasaki Shikibu: Written in the 11th century, this classic novel is often considered the world's first novel. Set in Heian-era Japan, it traces the life and romances of Prince Genji, offering readers a glimpse into courtly life, poetic beauty, and the social intricacies of the time.

5. "Rashomon and Other Stories" by Ryunosuke Akutagawa: Known as the "Father of the Japanese short story," Akutagawa's collection provides a literary exploration of Japan's past. This compilation of tales includes the renowned "Rashomon," a chilling story of crime and moral ambiguity.

Renowned authors in the genre:

- Yukio Mishima: Known for his intense and introspective writing style, Mishima's novels, such as "The Sea of Fertility" tetralogy, delve into Japan's social and political changes during the 20th century.

- Lian Hearn: Under this pen name, Gillian Rubinstein wrote the popular "Tales of the Otori" series, set in a fictional world inspired by feudal Japan. This series offers readers a unique blend of historical fiction and fantasy elements.

- Laura Joh Rowland: Rowland's "Sano Ichiro" mystery series combines historical accuracy with thrilling storytelling. Set in the 17th-century Edo period, these novels feature the samurai detective Sano Ichiro as he solves complex crimes.

Websites to explore:

1. Goodreads' "Best Historical Fiction Set in Japan" list: This curated list provides an excellent starting point for discovering highly-rated historical Japanese fiction novels recommended by fellow readers.

2. JapanTrends website's "Books on Japan" section: Offering a wide range of recommendations, this website covers various genres set in Japan, including historical fiction. It provides insightful reviews and suggests popular titles for readers to explore.

3. Historical Novel Society website: Here, you can find comprehensive reviews and recommendations for historical Japanese fiction novels, along with interviews with authors and articles that delve deeper into the genre.

Immerse Yourself in the World of Historical Japanese Fiction

Whether you are captivated by the timeless tales of samurais and geishas or fascinated by the intricacies of Japan's rich history, historical Japanese fiction offers an immersive experience like no other. With a plethora of highly acclaimed novels, esteemed authors, and dedicated websites to guide you on your literary journey, now is the perfect time to dive into the captivating world of Japan's past. Let the pages of these books transport you to a time of honor, tradition, and adventure. Happy reading!
Return to heaven and become a horse carrier. Fiction
Return to heaven and become a horse carrier.

A special forces soldier who participated in the war unexpectedly traveled back to the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom era several decades ago due to a parachute accident. Through a series of coincidences, he became an influential figure in the court as an advisor. With his agile physical abilities, intelligent mind, and knowledge of the history from the future, he showed us a Taiping Heavenly Kingdom that was different from what was recorded in history... giving history a true extension once again.

349.43 Million words | 2021-07-15 07:29Update

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I will never become an emperor. Fiction
I will never become an emperor.

I, Yu Zhiqian, would rather die in poverty, starve to death, and be degraded to a commoner than become an emperor!

101.85 Million words | 2023-05-10 12:06Update

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Bright Thief Fiction
Bright Thief

In the eleventh year of Chongzhen, the Manchus broke through the borders, the bandits resurged, and the land of the Han Dynasty was on the verge of collapse. A horse bandit emerged out of nowhere, bringing peace to all corners, enlightening the people, promoting industry and commerce, exploring overseas

104.97 Million words | 2021-02-08 15:49Update

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Three Kingdoms of Fish Flesh Fiction
Three Kingdoms of Fish Flesh

There are many definitions of heroes! Most of them end in tragedy! But there are two types of heroes that are quite special, they are known as charismatic heroes and scheming heroes. There are many charismatic heroes in the Three Kingdoms! And there is one scheming hero! How do you survive in the cracks between them? Will you become their henchmen? Unwilling? Then become their opponents! Interesting! Who are the Water Mirror Nine? Who is their leader? If you were to choose one color to rebel and create a flag, which color would you choose? Red, orange, yellow, green, blue, or purple? In the north of Jing Province, there is a river named Bi. In this river

157.28 Million words | 2021-07-27 15:42Update

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Love at First Sight: The Prince Devotes Himself to Love Fiction
Love at First Sight: The Prince Devotes Himself to Love

After being reborn, Yu Yu escaped when her scummy father was about to sell her. With her medical skills, she struggled and eventually became the goddaughter of an old marquis. In the prosperous city of Yanjing filled with the powerful and wealthy, even a fallen signboard can hit a fifth-rank official. Everyone eagerly anticipated a good laugh at the expense of this country girl who had suddenly appeared. However, their laughter never came as the noble daughters of Yanjing were astounded by her extraordinary beauty. In anger, they plotted to give her a hard time. But the arrogant Han Xiaowang, the little tyrant of the capital, declared: "If anyone dares to touch the person I protect, watch what happens!" The noble daughters remained speechless. Yu Yu said, "Hey, we're not acquainted." Han Xiaowang replied, "That's okay, I'm acquainted with you." Yu Yu retorted, "There's a whole wide world out there. Giving up an entire forest for a twisted neck tree doesn't make much sense." Han Xiaowang chuckled, "Let me see who dares to be foolish enough to cuckold me."

189.82 Million words | 2021-05-04 01:45Update

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Daily Life of the Favored Daughter of the Marquis Mansion Fiction
Daily Life of the Favored Daughter of the Marquis Mansion

Qin Wan, the three-time winner of Best Supporting Actress, suddenly found herself transmigrated into the role of a fake rich miss who was about to be driven out of the Marquis's mansion. From her position, it was clear that she was either a supporting character or a cannon fodder! Qin Wan touched her blood jade bracelet and smirked. As a supporting character, she was a professional at it! She could play the role of a naive innocent, a foolish and innocent character, a malicious and cunning one, a hypocritical and scheming white lotus, or anything else. The choice was hers. Her eldest brother, who had been slapped in the face, exclaimed, "With her graceful demeanor and noble air, Wan

113.16 Million words | 2021-03-06 19:48Update

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The Three Kingdoms Grand Voyage. Fiction
The Three Kingdoms Grand Voyage.

Li Zongwu said, Liu Bei is generous, Cao Cao is cunning, Sun Quan is both generous and cunning. Faced with this uncle who is both generous and cunning, as the only son of Sun Ce, Sun Shao feels immense pressure. He endures and hides his clumsiness, but countless concerns prevent him from minding his own business. His vision surpasses the era, making it impossible for him to conceal his brilliance. Without strength, there is no dignity. Faced with the relentless pursuit of the generous and cunning uncle, Sun Shao slams the table and vows to fight him to the end. The east wind blows, war drums sound, who is afraid of the generous

205.71 Million words | 2022-06-11 16:20Update

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System Dominates the World Fiction
System Dominates the World

In life, one should strive to become a remarkable person. Even in death, one should become a heroic spirit. Liu Sheng said so. "Go to hell," Chen Kun said irritably. "I just want to make money, you know, the kind of millionaire. What do generals, high-ranking officials, and dukes have to do with me?"

342.16 Million words | 2023-06-17 11:14Update

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Li Zicheng Fiction
Li Zicheng

Following the principle of "delving into history while transcending history", the author depicts the intricate and grand historical process of a peasant uprising that took place many years ago. The novel revolves around the transformation of Li Zicheng's peasant uprising from weakness to strength, the overthrow of the Ming Dynasty, and the resistance against the invading Qing army. It presents a multi-perspective, multi-faceted, and multi-level panorama of the tumultuous events during the late Ming and early Qing dynasties, as well as the tragic end of the peasant uprising, revealing the laws governing peasant wars and historical development.

380.97 Million words | 2021-06-22 06:13Update

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Qing Feng Jun Fiction
Qing Feng Jun

Wearing a red scarf on his head, he picked up a kitchen knife and rebelled. "One-eyed Stone Man, inciting rebellion throughout the Yellow River, is so out of style. Nowadays, it's all about communicating through pictures! With a kitchen knife in hand, I have the world!" Who's that Zhang Jiusi smuggling salt? Xu Shouhui selling cloth? Fang Guozhen, the pirate? Chen Youli

13.91 Million words | 2022-09-03 11:59Update

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I am the master of the world in the Three Kingdoms. Fiction
I am the master of the world in the Three Kingdoms.

The talented young martial artist, Gao Yuan, unexpectedly travels back in time to the Three Kingdoms era and is reborn as the son of Gao Shun, who happens to be married to Lu Bu's

289.50 Million words | 2022-04-09 14:26Update

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Power and Dominion over the Ming Dynasty Fiction
Power and Dominion over the Ming Dynasty

In the forty-fifth year of the Wanli reign, Li Hongyu unexpectedly became the young master of a influential local clan's third branch. He instinctively enjoyed wealth and glory, but unexpectedly, the industries under his name were successively seized by the clan head who relied on his power. At the same time, the Ming Dynasty was also plagued by internal and external troubles, with war in the frontier and political struggles in the capital, causing the decline of the empire. For the sake of the people and for himself and those around him, the protagonist decided to embark on an official career. However, first, he must rise up and reclaim the industries usurped by the clan head. Author's QQ group: [omitted]. This novel is updated daily and may have intermittent bursts, welcome to read. Author's customized tags: Aristocratic family, Wit, Struggle for power.

339.00 Million words | 2020-12-10 18:20Update

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The Mightiest Warrior Fiction
The Mightiest Warrior

The bloody and savage Eastern conquest of the twelve major races. A journey of training in the vast grass sea of the wild East. The first human to practice the ancient shamanic martial arts. A radiant warrior clad in mysterious battle armor. The love and hatred, affection and enmity of the battlefield sons and daughters. The tears and war songs of iron-blooded brothers. I will plant my conquering flags throughout this land, and there shall be only one voice in this world. I am who I am, unbeatable in battle, invincible in attack, the mightiest warlord. ("Invincible War Criminal" renamed to "Mightiest Warlord." Thank you.)

121.76 Million words | 2022-07-22 22:10Update

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Ming Dynasty tycoon Fiction
Ming Dynasty tycoon

In the era of Longwan, money flowed freely, maritime trade prospered, and the whip of capitalism began sprouting, leading the Great Ming toward the pinnacle of power. This was an era where politics and commerce were intertwined, where scholars were also entrepreneurs. This was an era of grandeur and decline, a turning point in history. This was an era of extravagance and splendor, where everything seemed dazzling. This was an era of waiting for industries to flourish, a time to showcase one's capabilities. In this era, old systems came to an end, while new systems emerged, paving the way for the Great Ming to embark on another path towards world domination.

113.04 Million words | 2022-08-19 17:20Update

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Han and Tang Dynasties Fiction
Han and Tang Dynasties

It's unjust. A manhole on the road has thrown me back into the chaotic era of the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms. I have neither profound martial arts skills nor extraordinary knowledge. I'm just a lover of history. In this dark age, I have no choice but to show how a fallen noble can rise against all odds. With bare hands, I will reclaim Hanzhong, establish control over Western Shu, bring peace to the

490.70 Million words | 2021-05-04 13:34Update

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The Xinhai Technological Empire Fiction
The Xinhai Technological Empire

Internet writer Chai Dongliang traveled through time to the moment when the gunshots of the Xinhai Revolution had just sounded, and he was pleasantly surprised to find that his laptop could actually connect with a book lovers' group a hundred years later! Book Friend A: Boss, can I dig up some buried gold and silver? Chai Dongliang: I don't have enough money myself! Book Friend B: Boss, can I dig up some buried jewels? Chai Dongliang: Those things are managed by my wife! Book Friend C: Boss, can I dig up a few porcelain bowls and plates? Chai Dongliang: Well, this request is not unreasonable!

540.75 Million words | 2021-04-08 18:17Update

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A Life in a Foreign Land Fiction
A Life in a Foreign Land

【Farm + Cute Kids + Sweet Pet + Vengeance】Qin Jiuyue, the ace assassin of the 22nd century, transmigrated into a malicious and despised rural girl, along with a living dead husband and four children with distinct personalities! Roll up your sleeves and work hard! I'll make you earn a fortune first. We can catch rabbits on the mountain and catch precious fish in the river. I'm skilled in farming and business! I raise chubby kids, teach them literature and martial arts, and guide them to become honorable heroes. Later on - The new emperor ascends the throne: I was raised by my mother. Young general: I was also raised by my mother. Foreign princess: I was adopted by Sister Jiuyue. The free-spirited medical saint: I was also picked up by Jiuyue as her disciple.

198.59 Million words | 2021-07-08 12:59Update

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From Chenqiao to Yashan. Fiction
From Chenqiao to Yashan.

The Informal History of the Song Dynasty: The Cycle from One Year-Old Child to Another Year-Old Child

507.59 Million words | 2020-08-08 18:01Update

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Take a plane to the Ming Dynasty. Fiction
Take a plane to the Ming Dynasty.

Queen's birthday is here, what to give without jewelry? Gift a photo... Huang Taiji's 100,000 cavalry troops pillage Liaodong, how to deal with it? Use excavators... Li Zicheng is about to reach Beijing, what to do? Bring Chen Yuanyuan back... The emperor has hanged himself on the coal mountain, what now? Let him die, I'll handle it... Chongzhen can die, but the Great Ming cannot perish. I am Prince Zhu Changyuan, and I speak for myself.

490.60 Million words | 2021-06-07 20:10Update

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Iron-blooded Cavalry of the Three Kingdoms. Fiction
Iron-blooded Cavalry of the Three Kingdoms.

Modern mercenary Zhang Yan unexpectedly traveled back to the war-torn era of the Three Kingdoms. He helped Tao Qian to drive away Cao Cao, snatched Liu Bei's wife, and took over Tao Qian's territory in Xu Zhou. Zhang Yan recruited fierce warriors, talented scholars, and established the Iron Cavalry. He fought against Cao Cao, drove away Liu Bei, battled Lu Bu, mocked Yuan Shao, destroyed Yuan Shu, challenged the world, dominated the emperor, established hegemony over Hebei, pacified Guanzhong, conquered Jiangnan, marched into Bashu, and conquered the Western Liang. With the invincible Iron Cavalry, Zhang Yan created a path of glory in the Three Kingdoms era.

263.60 Million words | 2020-11-25 13:14Update

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