A Handbook of Place Names in Japan: Their History and Significance

by John C. Maher

This is a comprehensive guide to place-names in Japan. It lists the names in English and Japanese, their literal translation in English, as well as the folk-etymologies of all Japan's cities and many towns. It is the first detailed description of place-names in Japan in any world language other than Japanese. Approximately 5000 place-names are arranged alphabetically covering historic and tourist-site towns, and important rivers and mountains. Entries are arranged alphabetically by prefecture following the 47 prefectures todofuken. Place-names are icons of local and national identity and are also signs of cultural traditions and popular beliefs - part of everyday life and conversation, politics, food names, jokes, proverbs and song. Importantly, too, they reflect the history of Japan from the beginning of the modern period.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1912961237
• ISBN13: 9781912961238
• Release Date: June 2021
• Publisher: Renaissance Books
• Length: 352 Pages
• Weight: 1.21 lbs.