Tokyo noir: O investigador americano que desvendou os segredos da máfia japonesa

by Jake Adelstein, André Czarnobai (Translator)

A SEQUÊNCIA DO LIVRO QUE INSPIROU A SÉRIE TOKYO VICE DA HBO. Tokyo noir é uma jornada de alta voltagem por salões de pachinko a empresas de fachada da yakuza. Neste relato de fatos verídicos com forte carga literária e velocidade de thriller, o Japão ganha ares tão absurdos que parecem dignos de ficção.

Após se aventurar pelo submundo japonês como repórter, Jake Adelstein trocou o jornalismo pelo cargo de detetive particular, e se especializou em identificar se empresas japonesas tinham ligações escusas com criminosos. A partir desse novo – e perigoso – emprego, o autor nos conduz por uma cidade pouco vista nos postais turísticos. E é assim que descobrimos que a yakuza, lendária máfia com inúmeros tentáculos e facções, está infiltrada em todos os aspectos da sociedade japonesa. Como uma milícia ou um governo paralelo, mafiosos interferem nas Olimpíadas, ajudam habitantes após o terremoto que provocou o desastre nuclear e, no meio disso, matam algumas pessoas.
O próprio Adelstein se torna um alvo visado, e sua jornada é arriscada como poucas. Por trás de tantos acontecimentos, encontram-se momentos de ternura, como a sua relação com uma amiga investigadora que padece de leucemia, e de admiração pela cultura budista, que surge como uma luz purificadora em um universo corrompido. Todas essas facetas complexas colidem em um livro que é literatura pura, por mais colado que seja a um relato de experiência real.

Genres: Japan, Nonfiction, True Crime, Crime, Memoir, Audiobook, Journalism

395 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 12, 2025

About the author

Jake Adelstein has been an investigative journalist in Japan since 1993 and low-ranking Zen Buddhist priest since 2017--and is unlikely to ever achieve satori. That's okay. He's considered one of the foremost experts on organized crime in Japan and works as a writer and consultant in Japan, the United States and France. He is the author of Tokyo Vice: A Reporter on the Police Beat in Japan (Vintage) and has written two other books published by Marchialy in France.

𝗝’𝗔𝗜 𝗩𝗘𝗡𝗗𝗨 𝗠𝗢𝗡 𝗔̂𝗠𝗘 𝗘𝗡 𝗕𝗜𝗧𝗖𝗢𝗜𝗡𝗦 (I Sold My Soul For Bitcoins) 2019

Reviews

[Mai H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm here because I watched and loved TOKYO VICE, which I started for Ken Watanabe and ended for Sho Kasamatsu. These are my types: 1) old men that look like MEN, and 2) young pretty boys with obscene cheekbones.

While Jake's narration is only slightly obnoxious, I found the underbelly of Japanese society to be a truly fascinating read. After glossing over their vast war crimes, the Japan of today is often seen as an ideal society. That ideal is fraught with a criminal underbelly.

🎧 Thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media

[Kate O'Shea · Rating 4 out of 5]

I listened to an audio advance review copy of this novel which was narrated by the author and Shoko Plambeck. The narration was excellent and Shoko, in particular, brought a playful quality to the recording. Sometimes authors don't do their own work justice but
Mr Adelstein isn't one of them. He has a good clear voice and a calm delivery.

This book is billed as a follow up to Tokyo Vice but the yakuza part of the book is not the whole story. Adelstein follows up on the first book with what happened next to the Yamaguchi Gumi including the outcome of death threats and what happened to his nemesis, Tadsmasa Goto.

There are also the stories that follow this time when Adelstein uses his talents to check out yakuza-related companies amd corruption in the Tokyo Olympic Committee amongst others.

There is also a very moving description of Adelstein's relationship with long time friend, Mimi plus his own struggles with health and abusing his ageing body.

Jake Adelstein has led a fascinating life so far, not least in more recent years as he renews his interest in Zen Buddhism. He's certainly put his life and health on the line more than your average person.

This book is really interesting and pulls no punches about corruption within Japan. I'd definitely recommend it for fans of Adelstein's work or if you just want to read a really interesting book about Japan.

Thank you to Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for the audio advance review copy.

[Daniel Warriner · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve always enjoyed Adelstein’s books and articles, and Tokyo Noir gives us an even more reflective side of this journalist, yakuza expert, Zen Buddhist priest, etc. than we’ve seen in the past. Here he looks back on his years as a reporter in Tokyo while shedding light on the dark corners of the city and on his own experiences, discussing the personal toll of his workaholic lifestyle and relationships with underworld figures and those close to him. There’s humor in this book too, and moments that are quite touching as well.

Having spent my own fair share of time since the 1990s in Tokyo’s seedier areas like Roppongi and Kabukicho, I figure Adelstein and I must’ve crossed paths at some point. I know well a lot of the Tokyo-related stories and crimes he discusses, but as Tokyo Noir shows us, there are often significant gaps in the information the media, government, or police give the public. Jake’s work and writing fill in many of these missing pieces, and I really hope he has more chapters from his life to share with us in the future.

[Jake · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good addition to Adelstein’s body of work. Doesn’t touch The Last Yakuza, which for my money is one of the best gangster chronicles of all-time. But it’s still a readable romp. I’m happy for Jake with the turn in his life but if he ever goes back to writing, I’d love for him to write a soup-to-nuts bio on Tadamasa Goto.

[Smicetti · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tan buena como Tokyo Vice y que logra contar nuevas cosas sobre el modus operandi de la Yakuza, así como el mundo de los bajos fondos de Japón.

[Liz Marchiondo · Rating 3 out of 5]

DNF. Got about 20% in and it didn't hold my interest. Additionally, the dialogue between the main character and his assistant seemed simplistic and almost had a staccato type rhythm to their speaking.

[Mai Vy Dang · Rating 4 out of 5]

In Tokyo Noir, Jake sheds light on his due diligence work and wider experiences with Japan's dark corners, including the yakuza and beyond. His third book got a lot more personal, as he's telling the aftermath of the lifestyle he accumulated from the Tokyo Vice era. His words and sentiments for Michiel were particularly touching, reminding me of the many people passing through his life as told from Tokyo Vice. It seems fleeting in a way, and unfortunate that deaths of colleagues/acquaintances/friends have to be experienced so often.

I'm so happy for Jake with his happy relationship with Jessy and his turn to be a Zen Buddhist priest. Hopefully he has managed to solve the koan and master folding his robes. I have the strongest urge to rewatch Tokyo Vice on HBO Max again, and probably will go do that now.

[Hviareadsbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such an interesting deep dive into the crime aspect of the Japan. I have had interest in this topic since watching more modern animes and hearing tattoos were frowned upon, so getting a chance to review this book was perfect. I enjoyed the story telling narrative the author choose, it made it feel more like listening to a fiction book than going through a boring non fiction story.

[Geraldo Nascimento · Rating 5 out of 5]

A delight and incredibly insightful.

Reading Jake Adelstein's first-person journalism always makes me want to be a better person, as he dives deep into the yakuza and other evils of the world.

[Javier Rubiales · Rating 4 out of 5]

Muy en la linea de Tokio Vice, y notablemente superior a "The Last Yakuza"

Si no tiene 5 estrellas es porque al final es una historia más personal, y con menos visión del Japón de los bajos fondos; pero aun asi el autor hace que la lectura sea muy entretenida y dramática por momentos.

[Tori Tale · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Tokyo Noir, there are bad guys, journalists asking important questions, and innocent people caught in a path of injustice leading to faith-shaking tragedy. Tokyo Noir mirrors a raw, vulnerable, and compelling story of Tokyo, and one man’s journey navigating it over the last 40 years. Beginning where Tokyo Vice left off, this book aims to educate readers further on the often unseen and unspoken underworld of Japan while tying up loose ends from the previous novel.

Since visiting Japan in 2016, many of the questions I’ve had since then were answered here. Chapters flew by, with both introductory and in-depth explanations of tightly kept secrets hidden in plain sight. Giving a 101 on hot topics like the mistreatment of Koreans in Japan, the Yakuza, and nuclear power after Fukushima, Jake Adelstine juggles his new identity as a private investigator while revealing his own life with admirably brave honesty. Jake may have never made it as a stand-up comedian, but his attempts at keeping an otherwise extremely heavy book light highlight the personality of the man behind the words.

I do believe that, no matter how many reservations one may have about Jake or his book, it is an incredibly powerful, educational, and sentimental timepiece. One can’t help but respect Jake’s humility, honesty, and bravery. It’s an inspiration to me and a book I will refer to often—a compelling read that I finished as soon as I picked it up. I’d recommend Tokyo Noir and Tokyo Vice to anyone interested in journalism, truth, and Japan (and anyone upset that Tokyo Vice the TV show didn’t get a season 3). This is a must-read book. 10/10.

[Tom J · Rating 5 out of 5]

i really enjoyed this, but if you're looking at this and haven't read the author's previous work, you're probably missing a fair bit by not reading those first.

on the one hand, this lacks a central driving narrative in the way previous books by the author have had. it is a little jarring to jump around years without much connecting the stories, and sometimes it feels like these are vignettes that have been published elsewhere first. things are sometimes repeated in a way that doesn't really make sense in a book where you're reading things things in a set order. it also means that some aspects are criminally underdeveloped, like the broader process of due diligence. the glimpses we see are fascinating! i would love to read further about it but the book moves on, as adelstein did

ultimately this is a book about jake adelstein, a man who seems to have the years catching up with him. if you find him an interesting person (and i clearly do) then this is great, and he talks about his life in a way that manages to seem less embarrassingly self-obsessed than most authors who write about themselves. i cried at least once while reading this, which doesn't really seem like praise, but it is. it would have been very easy to write a book where adelstein comes off as a cool badass, but he remains appropriately self aware throughout, giving the rest of the story a significantly more realistic feel.

the last chapter is, to be honest, a colossal surprise. hopefully there's another one of these books so i can see how the colossal change in life circumstances works out

[Vakaris the Nosferatu · Rating 5 out of 5]

all reviews in one place: night mode reading ; skaitom nakties rezimu

My Opinion: The author, former crime reporter in Japan, offers a unique insight. Grappling with his own personal challenges, such as health, social life, and family all the way across the globe, he worked as a private investigator. A company would come to him, often with as little information as a single business card, and request he investigates the other company before a deal is made with them. Because that’s the new way yakuza operate, via business fronts that are paper thin, and can cost the benefactors more than anyone is willing to lose. Around this main core, the author conveys us the story as mentioned above: what yakuza were, and how they became this. Even if you don’t care about this man’s personal struggles, it’s worth a read. He made friends with both criminals and officers. Laughed with them, fought them, and forgave them. It’s a fascinating read, especially if you’re into these topics. But probably so even if you’re not.

A solid 5 out of 5, this was very fun, and very interesting.

[Debbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Tokyo Vice (the tv series) a lot, especially having lived and worked in Japan myself and being able to speak Japanese (although never as fluent in my reading and writing as Jake!). His second book starts after he stops being a journalist and become an investigator (mostly doing due diligence), but still talks about the Yakuza and about his life in Japan. His health, his family in the US, his love life, his spiritual life, and the danger he was in from Goto (the Yakuza boss he had had thrown out of his yakuza family) make for a fascinating story, told with a sense of humour.
Highly recommended reading if you have read or watched Tokyo Vice.

[Cullen Haynes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book Review 36 (2024) - 4/5 - 'Tokyo Noir', Jake Adelstein - Non-Fiction - Japan/Crime/Autobiography
Fresh from a family trip to Tokyo last November, Tokyo Noir by Jake Adelstein caught my attention—perhaps it’s the strange synchronicity of travel memories and a recent AFR article. Japan’s contrast of serenity and tension is captivating, and Adelstein’s book takes us into the underbelly of it all. This isn’t just a crime book; it’s a kaleidoscope of three intersecting narratives, each one compelling in its own right.
Adelstein’s first story reads almost like a gritty memoir: a fearless, yet often perilous look into his encounters with the Yakuza, Japan’s organized crime syndicate. The Yakuza’s influence in Japan runs deep, woven through the fabric of the country’s economic and social landscape in ways that might surprise even the most well-read. Adelstein takes us straight into that world, painting the Yakuza not merely as antagonists but as complex figures—sometimes villains, sometimes even unlikely heroes. During the 2011 tsunami, they mobilized aid when traditional structures crumbled, providing a shocking juxtaposition: yes, they’re enforcers and extortionists, yet in moments of crisis, they can become saviors. It’s a reminder of the blurry line between right and wrong in the darkest corners of society.
A huge asset to Adelstein is his fluency in Japanese, which he uses like a weapon of its own. Blending in yet appearing like a clueless foreigner, he lets people’s guards down, listening to conversations they assume he doesn’t understand. It’s a masterstroke that opens doors—and mouths—in the underworld. One particularly wild anecdote finds him asking a drug-addled criminal for permission to include him in the book, a conversation that quickly escalates. In the heat of the moment, Adelstein finds himself forced to defend himself, popping the man’s kneecap before calling an ambulance. The absurdity and danger of Adelstein’s life as a reporter on the front lines of Japan’s criminal scene come through clearly here, adding a visceral element to his storytelling.
The second layer of Tokyo Noir delves into the dark connections between the Yakuza and businesses you might assume are reputable. From real estate empires to casinos, and, hauntingly, the Fukushima nuclear reactor that failed in 2011, Adelstein reveals how crime and commerce in Japan can be disturbingly intertwined. The negligence at Fukushima stirred memories of another tragedy—the infamous failures chronicled in Chernobyl. Tokyo Noir brings this to life with chilling reminders of how profit, at times, is prioritized over safety, with human lives often relegated to footnotes in the balance sheet. Both cases reveal how vulnerable people are when left to the mercy of companies that value financial gain over ethics and safety—a message that echoes long after the last page is turned.
Adelstein’s personal life is woven deeply into the third and perhaps most haunting narrative. He doesn’t hold back when sharing the painful story of his girlfriend’s battle with a rare form of cancer. Reading this part hit hard; it’s a raw and tragic reminder that life’s cruelties spare no one. Adelstein’s grief permeates the pages, as he reveals his struggles in a way that resonates deeply. This part of the book, a tribute to love lost and to the frailty of human connections, reminds us of our own fragility and the loved ones we hold dear.
Tokyo Noir pulls back the curtain on a world most of us will only ever glimpse from the outside, allowing readers to explore Japan’s darkest alleyways without ever leaving their living rooms. The writing is as gritty as it is poignant, offering insight into the hidden side of Japan with a rawness and vulnerability that’s hard to find. While it occasionally delves too deep into the dark, Adelstein’s unflinching storytelling and transparency make this book not only a great read but also a reflection on life’s unpredictable twists and turns.
In a way, Tokyo Noir is both an exposé and a love letter to Japan—a place where contradictions thrive, where elegance and danger exist side by side. Adelstein’s work provides a multifaceted look into the paradoxes that define the country’s complex social fabric.
Fun fact: I’m on a 537-day Duolingo streak learning Japanese—still far from fluent, but loving every bit of it! My fascination with the culture really deepened thanks to my fantastic neighbours next door from Japan, who shared not only their language but also some incredible travel gems when we last visited (and a few hidden spots to check out next time!). So, to everyone here, arigatou gozaimasu! And, as they say in Japan when it’s time to call it a day... sayonara! Here’s to new journeys, on LinkedIn and beyond!
Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
Happy reading all
CPH
If you’ve read Tokyo Noir, drop a comment or send me a message! Do you think the Yakuza’s actions in times of crisis redeemed them in any way, or does their influence do more harm than good? How far should journalists go to tell stories like this one? I'd love to hear your take! And if you haven’t yet, be sure to subscribe for more book reviews, reflections, and recommendations.
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[Zchelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fascinating insight into the underworld of the yakuza and other corrupt organisations in Japan. I picked up this as my library didn’t have any copies of the prequel, Tokyo Vice. Alderstein recounts his life as a journalist reporting on the yakuza and crime in Japan, and the book shows his talent for fact-finding, building relationships with both yakuza and non-yakuza to uncover information. Alderstein’s tactfulness (and sometimes his oversights) in his interactions with the criminal characters shows the yakuza as humans as well as criminals, and underlines the high levels of risk that Alderstein played with in reporting on yakuza activities.

Alderstein displays a degree of boastfulness in his ability to do his job, but given the stories he was able to uncover, and his ability to remain alive in doing so, his peacocking is not totally uncalled for, and he is able to remain amusing and not annoying. Perhaps it was because I read this as an eBook, or perhaps it was the content itself, but despite some very engrossing parts, I found it difficult to finish the book in one go; I constantly revisited it and finished it eventually, after about 6 months. The first part, which was written more generally regarding yakuza, and Alderstein’s work in due diligence (checking the legitimacy of companies) I found fascinating. Alderstein describes how yakuza have managed to function semi-legitimately in Japan, by having front companies and through the government turning a blind eye to their activities through a variety of loopholes. Very enlightening was the existence of kaishaya, people who ‘sell off’ old companies, to be used by yakuza as front companies to disguise their criminal activity. Alderstein also recounts the vendetta that yakuza Tadamasa Goto had against him, and the unnerving death threats Alderstein received.

The most interesting part for me, though, is the involvement of yakuza with pachinko, and the plight of the Korean-Japanese yakuza who primarily run pachinko parlours. This inspires me to read more about Korean-Japanese and their history and discrimination in Japan. However, I noticed that my attention dropped off in Part 2, which was about the corruption of TEPCO (Tokyo Electric Power Company) and the danger that they exposed (and continue to expose) the Japanese public to. Alderstein described how TEPCO safeguarded themselves against being held to account, by maintaining connections with political parties and by bringing advertisement income to the key Japanese newspapers.
Despite this a highly important subject, I found my attention wavered on this part, perhaps because Part One on the yakuza world was somewhat more thrilling.

What was most surprising and amusing is the portrayal of sides of the yakuza that defy their stereotypes. For example, the banter that Alderstein has with the gang members shows them to be witty and amusing. Alderstein describes the code of ethics to which some yakuza subscribe (eg. no violence to civilians) and the honourable actions of certain yakuza who end up assisting Alderstein. He also shows the yakuza’s ability to help in emergency situations such as in the aftermath of the nuclear disaster, where governmental agencies were too slow moving and bound by bureaucratic constraints to act quickly to help citizens.

Alderstein also includes candid scenes of his personal life, notably his friendship and relationship with colleague Michiel Brandt, which is bittersweet and heartaching, his trials with liver cancer, and his final resolve to change careers to a Buddhist priest. Eclectic as its author, Tokyo Noir is an impressive, entertaining and highly informative memoir.

Quotes
"If you look at bullying logically, then you can see it's the root of all evil. Not money, but bullying. That's all it takes: the imposition of your will, your desires, your wishes, on another human being by force or intimidation. You can see it in Rwanda just as easily as you can see it in the schoolyard. Different canvas, different color paint, but it's exactly the same thing: 'I can make you do what I want you to do, because I'm stronger than you. It's not a question that l'm smarter or l'm more ethical or I'm more entitled.
I'm simply stronger.'"
— Andrew Vachss, 2002

[Bianca Vandenbos · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tokyo Noir
Two years ago, I watched & read Tokyo Vice by Jake Adelstein & I did a Q&A with him & became internet friends. It’s hard to believe that I did one of my early Q&As with him nearly two years ago in July. We spoke about Tokyo Vice both the book & the show, his favorite places in Japan & the sequel Tokyo Noir. Tokyo Noir takes place right after the events of Tokyo Vice. Jake has turned from reporter to private eye and does due diligence work. Jake has gotten his enemy Goto Tadamasa banished from the yakuza. He doesn’t have to worry about this enemy for now. Hardship is about to hit Jake like a bus when he realizes he does have one enemy to fight, himself.

Writing, Favorite Line & Better Sequel Than The First Book
Everyone says that the first installment, whether it’s a book or a movie, is often always better than the second or umpteenth sequels afterword. Though there are a small number of times where the sequel is either just as good or better than the first part. In this case, Tokyo Noir was better than Tokyo Vice. It was interesting reading about TEPCO (Tokyo Electric Power Company) & the Fukishima Meltdown. We also read about the Olympic committee having yakuza ties. I had to pray several rosaries to get through this book, I was crying at certain points reading about Jakes personal life going downhill with liver cancer & other choices that he made that weren’t good & the death of his friend Micheil.
Also Saigo was back a few times and there was one part he gave Jake great advice that made me think, “Never did I feel as though I would hear him give profound advice.” It wasn’t all sad though. I thought it humorous that Jake didn’t know what BFF meant and Beni had to explain it to him, and Michiel told him he was silly lol! My favorite line in Tokyo Noir is this If you don’t really want to know the answer, don’t ask the question. Many people think they want the truth, or ought to know the truth, but when you tell it to them, they act as though you’ve personally assaulted them. I can relate to this quote because I feel as though I have to discern when to say the truth and when to remain silent.

Overall
Theres a lot I could say in this review, but I would end up spoiling the entire book. If you read & enjoyed Tokyo Vice & The Last Yakuza you are definitely going to enjoy reading Tokyo Noir. If you are empathetic like I am, you or someone you know suffered having cancer and lived or died (as majority of us have) then you are going to shed tears. Tokyo Noir will be available in the US on October 1st, its available in Australia today & July 18th in the UK. Thank you, Jake, for writing this long awaited sequel and getting personal in it. I wish the best for you.

[Manuel Acosta · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jake Adelstein es reconocido por su labor investigadora en el periódico japonés Yomiuri Shimbun y por su libro anterior, Tokyo Vice, del que también se hizo una serie de tv. Ahora con Tokyo Noir nos sumerge en los oscuros entresijos de la sociedad japonesa, explorando la corrupción que campa por las instituciones gubernamentales, la influencia de la Yakuza y las conexiones que existen entre sectores industriales, como el empresarial y el nuclear. ​

En esta ocasión el autor estructura el libro en tres partes narrativas. Inicialmente, Adelstein expone problemas estructurales en los reactores nucleares, seguidos por el colapso provocado por el terremoto y tsunami de 2011, y concluye con su propia crisis personal tras recibir noticias médicas adversas. Según palabras del propio autor esta estructura refleja la naturaleza caótica y fragmentada del crimen en Japón, permitiendo al lector experimentar la desorientación característica de los bajos fondos de Tokio. ​

El estilo del libro está claramente influenciado por el género noir, explorando la ambigüedad moral y presentando personajes que navegan en un mundo indiferente hacia ellos. Adelstein utiliza este enfoque para capturar la esencia de Tokio, una ciudad de contrastes donde la realidad rara vez es lo que parece. ​

Además de su faceta investigadora, Tokyo Noir es profundamente personal. Adelstein comparte experiencias íntimas, como la enfermedad de su pareja y sus propios desafíos de salud, aportando una dimensión humana a la narrativa. Esta combinación de periodismo de investigación y memorias personales ofrece una visión única y a veces conmovedora del Japón contemporáneo. ​

En resumen, Tokyo Noir es una lectura recomendable para quienes deseen adentrarse en las complejidades del Japón actual, explorando sus sombras y contradicciones a través de la mirada de un periodista que ha vivido en primera persona los entresijos de esta sociedad.

[Thrillers&Coffee · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5⭐️

Dividido en tres partes nos sumergiremos en el mundo de la Yakuza japonesa, en los bajos fondos del crimen organizado y su descaro a la hora de camuflar sus ilegalidades con negocios legales, mayoritariamente inmobiliarios o dedicados al entretenimiento, conocidos como sociedades fantasma. Junto al periodista Jake Adelstein, que fue el primer extranjero en trabajar para el periódico más importante de Japón, iremos conociendo más detalles de este mundo y esa parte de Japón que no se muestra en las guías turísticas, mientras nuestro reportero se juega su reputación y por qué no decirlo, la vida.

La historia está contada en primera persona con una narración absorbente, entretenida y curiosa, con una atmósfera brutal de ese Japón desconocido. Previo a este libro, el autor lanzó en el año 2009 Tokyo Vice (convertido actualmente en serie de TV) y sobre el cual hay continuas referencias donde contextualizará en líderes de la Yakuza y sus vivencias pasadas.

Y es que, el papel de esta organización en Japón es mucho más relevante de lo que llegamos a imaginarnos en Europa porque la Yakuza, compuesta por ochenta mil miembros, están incluso relacionados con temas nucleares y sociales como la reconstrucción y ayuda al pueblo japonés tras el terremoto de magnitud 9,0 que devastó al país y los reactores nucleares de la prefectura de Fukushima, por ejemplo, o forjando relaciones con el Comité Olímpico Japonés y sus “Juegos Olímpicos de 2020”.

“Hay que entender el papel de la Yakuza en la sociedad para comprender por qué resultan tan útiles a la hora de preservar la paz y ofrecer ayuda humanitaria.”

Definitivamente, una lectura curiosa para conocer la otra cara del país nipón intercalando capítulos con la vida del periodista que, quizás, no nos han atraído tanto pero que te hace reflexionar sobre todas esas cosas que los ciudadanos de a pie desconocemos de los chanchullos de nuestros gobernantes.

[Ilana · Rating 4 out of 5]

As in Tokyo Vice, Adelstein will surprise the reader who is expecting to be delighted in charming reports about the encounter of an American journalist with the Japanese culture. He has a deep knowledge of the real Japan: rampant fraud and the massive underworld structure, Yakuza clients from the top of the government and sport association and real estate businesses. Every country has its own secrets, and journalists on the run to reveal them.
Adelstein belongs to an old school of journalists, following investigation threads above everything. The investigative methods changed, but hell, also Yakuza is getting weaker by the day. Nothing stays the same.
But the books also can be read as a memoir, of his encounters with Yakuza bosses, yes, but also of facing loss of dear friends and finding his way as a Zen priest.
A very recommended read to journalists looking for motivation to do their job well, but also for anyone curious to discover some insider´s take on Japan, the real country, not the projection from travel leaflets.

Disclaimer: Book offered by the publisher in exchange for an honest review

[Phil · Rating 3 out of 5]

I came in to this expecting big things as I was a huge fan of Tokyo Vice, I found the details compelling and finding out about the relationship between the yakuza, reporters & police was really interesting to me as an outsider who knows very little of Japan. Being the only person willing to speak to Lucie Blackmans father who was being continuous excluded by Japanese authorities I found a really positive thing to do.

Whilst this new book is also full of interesting stories and information about crime in a much different way, I didn't really see the point of it. Maybe it's just me who feels this way, but it was almost cash grabby.

I know Jake probably doesn't see himself as an incredible person, and is definitely trying to be better but the sense you get of Jake in this book compared to the first (where I feel some of his actions were more justifiable), he just comes across as shitty.

Personally I didn't vibe with this as much as I thought (hoped?) I would. None the less I can't help but feel like I'd get on with Jake if I ever met him, which probably doesn't say great things about me either.

[Dave · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tokyo Noir is the sequel to Jake Adelstein's best-selling memoir Tokyo Vice, now an equally successful TV series.
Having moved on from journalism Adelstein goes into the field of due-diligence ,investigating businesses for signs of corruption or organised-crime links for potential buyers and investors. Not everything has changed however and Adelstein's nemesis Tadamasa Goto ,thrown out of the Yakuza as a result of one of his scoops, is still angry to the point of not very subtle death threats.
This is a bit different to Tokyo Vice in that a number of diverse topics are addressed,some very personal,Adelstein's friendship with his chief researcher blooming before tragedy strikes, Japan's appalling treatment of its Korean population since world war 2, the truth behind the Fukushima incident and much more.
A fascinating read that will open many eyes into the way Japan is run,not least the massive level of corruption that still lingers on even as the Yakuza is finally being taken on by the authorities.

[Jeff · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mr. Adelstein is a first-class crime reporter. His Toyko Noir provides an in depth look inside Japanese corruption. Expecting a focus on Yakuza, the book takes readers into that and so much more. Not knowing anything about Japan's law and power structures, Adelstein's investigative reports spotlight the Yakuza's humanitarian efforts as first responders during the Fukushima reactor meltdown of 2011. He then does a deep dive into the failings and lies told by the Tokyo Electric Power Company. TEPCO's cover-up and negligence are an important fabliau about what can go wrong without proper regulation and oversight. Now that Trump's administration is looking to expand nuclear power, we need to be very concerned and learn from Japan's mistakes.

The book explains how the Japan's civil law trumps criminal law in dealing the Yakuza. Also, importance of pachinko parlors in Japanese life and they led to international extortion the North Koreans. Throw in the author's personal journey, you have an informative wild read.

[Pedro Pascoe · Rating 3 out of 5]

Having thoroughly enjoyed Tokyo Vice, purchased and read on my previous visit to Japan, I was delighted to find the sequel (of sorts) on my visit this year to Japan.

While this volume didn't pack the same punch for me as Tokyo Vice, it was nonetheless an enjoyable read. Part crime expose, part memoir, part drawing the veil away on the Japanese society that I lived in for over a decade and barely knew of, I was hoping that it would go a bit harder on the expose. Still, the depth of corruption surrounding the nuclear industry, the Olympics (pretty much a given, but never give up on exposing it where it exists), more Yakuza shennanigans, and probably a bit more memoir than I was expecting made for a satisfying train read, all in Adelstein's confident manner. It was like slipping back into an alternative reality once again, only the alt reality exists, and is in many ways more real than the world I inhabit.

On a separate note, after having read Tokyo Vice last year, I discovered that it had been made in to a tv series, which I dutifully watched and enjoyed immensely.

[Jonelle Patrick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I liked Tokyo Vice, but I loved Tokyo Noir. Picking up where he left off after toppling the boss of the Goto-gumi, Jake Adelstein dishes up more true crime drama as he wades into the aftermath of Japan’s devastating 3/11 earthquake and tsunami, shining a bright light on the yakuza’s involvement in the Fukushima meltdown disaster. It’ll come as no surprise to Tokyo Vice fans that Japan’s infamous gangsters reap untold riches by profiting from the weaknesses and misfortunes of others, but Tokyo Noir exposes how powerful corporations and government figures made the gangsters look like the good guys by comparison. Adelstein’s skills as an investigative reporter and his boldness at looking under rocks that the powers-that-be would prefer to leave unturned once again deliver a tale of lies and corruption that's hard to put down.

[Kacey · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read Tokyo Vice in 2023 while traveling through Asia for work and stumbled upon this sequel more recently when trying to find something a little different to get me out of a reading slump.

It was certainly an entertaining read. Adelstein knows how to tell a story to keep readers entertained. I think the part that really grabbed my attention was the section dedicated to the 3/11 earthquake and aftermath. From the yakuza response to the later indepth section related to the Fukushima nuclear accident, it was a super interesting mix of Adelsteins personal experience and an investigation into the nuclear accident.

However, outside of that, most of the sections had their moments but didnt hold my attention as much. Overall, a fun change of pace from what I usually read but not everything worked for me.

[Jordyn Saindon · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was okay. Tokyo Vice was much better and full of interesting stories, crime and an underground Japan. This book fell flat because the yakuza has dissipated over the years and the crime is lower. Not only that, the writing, while well done, gives off ADD vibes, constantly going into random stories without finishing the initial one. For example, in the last chapter he starts talking about a murder of 9 people with their heads missing, and then dives into a story about 8 people who were run over and then finishes with Buddhism- what happened to the 9 people!? His writing has always been a bit too detail oriented for my liking, but Tokyo Vice made up for it in quality of stories. Aside from Adelstein’s personal life chapters and Michiel, I didn’t find many other chapters that interesting in this book

[Stephanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I devoured this book in a couple of days, Adelstein`s writing is enthralling and sucks you into the darker-side of Japan as well as aspects of his personal life.
Though the story doesn’t always follow a linear fashion is it well written and eventually everything comes together as a whole. I listened to the audiobook where the author reads the novel and he does a great job telling the stories — and the female narrator made for an interesting change

I definitely felt the emotions of the authors` stories - get yourself a box of tissues. There are definitely twists and turns and shows us that life is full of surprises as we work our way through it.

Thanks to Netgalley and Dreamscape Media for this ALC. This is my honest review.

[Ben · Rating 3 out of 5]

I devoured Jake Adelstein’s “Tokyo Vice” and even binge-watched the show. But “Tokyo Noir”? It’s like anticipating a thrilling roller coaster ride and getting stuck on the kiddie train. Adelstein comes off less as an intrepid journalist and more like a teenager desperate for likes on Instagram. The book is littered with personal anecdotes that scream, “Look at me! I’m edgy and complicated!” Spoiler alert: they’re more cliché than a sitcom plot twist.

I was craving another deep dive into the seedy underbelly of Tokyo’s criminal world, but what I got was a 10 cent 'peep show,' devoid of substance that would make me interested in them. It's readable, but not a recommendation I'd give out.

[Patrick McCoy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I did enjoy Jake Adelstein's follow up to his first memoir, Tokyo Vice, Tokyo Noir, but I felt as though something was missing. Just before reading this I read his book The Last Yakuza about his body guard/driver Makoto Saigo. And I really felt the narrative was tight and that he added lots of interesting information about Japanese society. This one not so much, and I guess it has something to do with the fact that I just found his post newspaper reporting life less compelling. Actually, I would have like dot hear more about the optioning of his book for a TV series since I know originally there was talk of a movie. That being said, I think it was a worthwhile read, but it might not be that interesting for someone who hasn't read the first book, Tokyo Vice.