Japan is a place of special fascination for the acclaimed international comics creator Igort, who has visited & lived there more than 20 times, & worked in the country`s manga industry for more than a decade. In this masterful new book--part graphic memoir, part cultural meditation--Igort vividly recounts his personal experiences in Japan, creating comics amid the activities of everyday life, & finding inspiration everywhere: in nature, history, custom, art, & encounters with creators including animation visionary Hayao Miyazaki. With beautifully illustrated reflections on subjects from printmaking to Zen Buddhism, imperial history to the samurai code, Japanese film, literature, & manga, this is a richly rewarding book for anyone interested in Japan or comic arts practiced at the highest level.