From The Tale of Genji—arguably the world’s first novel—to contemporary masterpieces, it’s clear that Japanese literature is a treasure trove of compelling and diverse narratives.

Eclectic yet distinctive, Japanese books touch upon contemporary social concerns and the intricacies of their society while still incorporating universal themes that leave a long-lasting impact on readers worldwide.

Naturally, listing all the best Japanese books would be an exhausting and subjective task.