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Letter from Japan
In her most personal book yet, the iconic star of the hit Netflix series Tidying Up with Marie Kondo and #1 bestselling author of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up opens up about the cultural traditions that have inspired her philosophy—and can make our lives better today.
“This book represents guiding principles by which I lead my life every day. They also define, at least for me, the values that flow through the customs, traditions, arts and sensibilities of Japan.”
Though she’s known for “tidying up” and “sparking joy,” there’s more to Marie Kondo than her fervent desire to help you better appreciate your mess. Across book tours and international conferences, it became clear that her audience, while interested in how to keep their lives tidy, was also keen to learn about Marie herself and the culture that is intrinsic to her tidying method.
Written with her television co-star Marie Iida, in Letter from Japan, Marie reflects on the myriad questions she received about her inspirations by examining the Japanese customs that she grew up with—minute details of tea ceremonies, the art of taking care of gardens, and the power of passing seasons—with her trademark gentle wisdom. But this book isn’t only a response to her audience’s wish to know the real Marie Kondo; it’s a testament for her three children, a documentation of the foundational elements of their culture, despite the rapidly changing times, which is essential to their understanding of the world around them.
With subtle and lyrical prose, Marie embarks on her most personal and affirming book yet, unveiling for her readers the customs, traditions, and practices that not only spark joy for her, but also to preserve them for future generations.
“This book represents guiding principles by which I lead my life every day. They also define, at least for me, the values that flow through the customs, traditions, arts and sensibilities of Japan.”
Though she’s known for “tidying up” and “sparking joy,” there’s more to Marie Kondo than her fervent desire to help you better appreciate your mess. Across book tours and international conferences, it became clear that her audience, while interested in how to keep their lives tidy, was also keen to learn about Marie herself and the culture that is intrinsic to her tidying method.
Written with her television co-star Marie Iida, in Letter from Japan, Marie reflects on the myriad questions she received about her inspirations by examining the Japanese customs that she grew up with—minute details of tea ceremonies, the art of taking care of gardens, and the power of passing seasons—with her trademark gentle wisdom. But this book isn’t only a response to her audience’s wish to know the real Marie Kondo; it’s a testament for her three children, a documentation of the foundational elements of their culture, despite the rapidly changing times, which is essential to their understanding of the world around them.
With subtle and lyrical prose, Marie embarks on her most personal and affirming book yet, unveiling for her readers the customs, traditions, and practices that not only spark joy for her, but also to preserve them for future generations.
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Published October 21, 2025
297 people are currently reading
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About the author
Marie Kondō
55 books5,046 followersMarie Kondo (近藤 麻理恵) is a Japanese organizing consultant and author. Kondo's method of organizing is known as the KonMari Method, and one of the main principles is keeping only possessions which "spark joy."
Kondo's best-seller The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing has been published in more than 30 countries.
She was listed as one of the world's 100 most influential people by Time Magazine in 2015.
Personal website: http://konmari.com/en/
Book website: http://tidyingup.com/
App website: http://konmari-media.com/
Kondo's best-seller The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing has been published in more than 30 countries.
She was listed as one of the world's 100 most influential people by Time Magazine in 2015.
Personal website: http://konmari.com/en/
Book website: http://tidyingup.com/
App website: http://konmari-media.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
December 2, 2025
I’m a fan of Marie Kondo. Her book “The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up” really did help me let go of a lot of stuff and re-evaluate the way I look at my household. This one was more informative than instructional, and though I went into it expecting a lot of biographical content I ended up with a wide range of topics instead.
For example, Kondo talks about the changing seasons in Japan and what makes each of them unique, suggesting that it is fulfilling to take more notice of each one in more detail before it passes. I have actually already been doing this, trying to savor the little things I like best about each time of year. Maybe as a way of trying to wring any sort of happiness out of 2025? Who knows. (I didn’t know that Sakura trees only bloom for two weeks every year, btw!)
I wasn’t sure at first what Kondo was doing with the format of this book, but once I got used to it I really liked it. She goes in depth about the meaning of various Japanese words, how they resonate in the culture, and how they compare to customs in the U.S. She also relates these words back to her own experiences as a tidying professional.
I especially liked learning about the term “otaku,” which has to do with being very devoted to a pop culture figure or fandom, and reading about the elaborate process of a proper Japanese tea service, among many other things.
It does kind of feel as though Kondo chose the topics for this book randomly, but that’s okay. It was a breezy and interesting read, and after completing it I really want to visit Japan someday. (I already did, but now it’s #1 on the list.)
For example, Kondo talks about the changing seasons in Japan and what makes each of them unique, suggesting that it is fulfilling to take more notice of each one in more detail before it passes. I have actually already been doing this, trying to savor the little things I like best about each time of year. Maybe as a way of trying to wring any sort of happiness out of 2025? Who knows. (I didn’t know that Sakura trees only bloom for two weeks every year, btw!)
I wasn’t sure at first what Kondo was doing with the format of this book, but once I got used to it I really liked it. She goes in depth about the meaning of various Japanese words, how they resonate in the culture, and how they compare to customs in the U.S. She also relates these words back to her own experiences as a tidying professional.
I especially liked learning about the term “otaku,” which has to do with being very devoted to a pop culture figure or fandom, and reading about the elaborate process of a proper Japanese tea service, among many other things.
It does kind of feel as though Kondo chose the topics for this book randomly, but that’s okay. It was a breezy and interesting read, and after completing it I really want to visit Japan someday. (I already did, but now it’s #1 on the list.)
August 12, 2025
This was such a fascinating book. I am a huge fan of Marie Kondo and the KonMari method so I was super excited about this book. It was great to learn more about Marie herself especially her last and her upbringing. I also really liked how she explained so many things in Japanese culture, and a lot of it is stuff that influences her tidying method. As someone who tidies this way also, it was interesting to learn more about it.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 28, 2026
I recommend this book extremely highly, particularly to readers who have visited Japan or who want to know more about it.
Informed in an almost invisible way by Shintoism, Kondo writes movingly about several aspects of Japanese culture, from making space, to onsens, to manga, to salt, vessels, umami, seasons, language and several other subjects.
For westerners, Kondo's style allows a welcome slowing, centering, and appreciation--taking a breath and then another--the perfect antidote to the profound rush and scattered attention-grabbing media to which we can otherwise be subject.
Again, highly, highly recommended.
Informed in an almost invisible way by Shintoism, Kondo writes movingly about several aspects of Japanese culture, from making space, to onsens, to manga, to salt, vessels, umami, seasons, language and several other subjects.
For westerners, Kondo's style allows a welcome slowing, centering, and appreciation--taking a breath and then another--the perfect antidote to the profound rush and scattered attention-grabbing media to which we can otherwise be subject.
Again, highly, highly recommended.
December 1, 2025
Marie Kondō is a Japanese organization guru who's best known for her 2010 book The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing promoting her eponymous KonMari method of keeping possessions that 'spark joy' and thanking and guiltlessly discarding the rest, and the subsequent media appearances, Netflix specials, and parody books resultantly spawned.
Fifteen years after her debut, Kondō is now in her early 40s, the married mother of three young kids and back living in Japan after several years living in the United States. Letter from Japan is a surprisingly delightful series of essays reflecting on the values and nuances of Japanese life and culture that created the foundation for Kondō's value systems and worldview. I would classify this as a very cozy book, analogous to Cecilia Blomdahl's Life on Svalbard: Finding Home on a Remote Island Near the North Pole (though minus the pictures, I think -- I listened to the audio version of this Kondō book), and reminiscent of Youtube channels like Paolo from Tokyo and cozy computer/mobile games like Japanese developer G-Mode's game Japan Rural Life Adventure. Though Kondō writes many vignettes about her own upbringing, I wouldn't really consider this book a memoir, as the focus is on Japanese traditions, customs, and philosophies more broadly. Crucially, and off-brand for Kondō, this isn't a how-to manual book on how to declutter your possessions and organize and clean your home! I really enjoyed this read, and I hope under Kondō's name recognition it finds a wide appreciative audience.
My statistics:
Book 357 for 2025
Book 2283 cumulatively
Fifteen years after her debut, Kondō is now in her early 40s, the married mother of three young kids and back living in Japan after several years living in the United States. Letter from Japan is a surprisingly delightful series of essays reflecting on the values and nuances of Japanese life and culture that created the foundation for Kondō's value systems and worldview. I would classify this as a very cozy book, analogous to Cecilia Blomdahl's Life on Svalbard: Finding Home on a Remote Island Near the North Pole (though minus the pictures, I think -- I listened to the audio version of this Kondō book), and reminiscent of Youtube channels like Paolo from Tokyo and cozy computer/mobile games like Japanese developer G-Mode's game Japan Rural Life Adventure. Though Kondō writes many vignettes about her own upbringing, I wouldn't really consider this book a memoir, as the focus is on Japanese traditions, customs, and philosophies more broadly. Crucially, and off-brand for Kondō, this isn't a how-to manual book on how to declutter your possessions and organize and clean your home! I really enjoyed this read, and I hope under Kondō's name recognition it finds a wide appreciative audience.
My statistics:
Book 357 for 2025
Book 2283 cumulatively
October 22, 2025
I throughly enjoyed this memoir by Marie Kondo. Written in an uncluttered simple but elegant style, this truly is a love letter about Japan and its cultural traditions that have evolved over hundreds of years. Marie Kondo highlights for readers who are not Japanese, what it means to be raised Japanese and how culture, traditions, ethos and approach to life are embedded in Japanese DNA, literally from birth. It is about the whole being - spiritual, mental, physical and emotional, and not only about the individual, but the community as a whole, and the wider universe. The explanation of Japanese concepts was well articulated. It was amusing to hear Marie’s initial reaction to a few habits from the western world, as well as how some living concepts she was accustomed to, such as taking long, leisurely baths, did not go over well in drought-stricken parts of the world. Overall, this was a four-star read with much kudos to the author and her co-writer for artfully creating a book that gives the reader an accessible, easily digestible, and important insight into what it’s like to live and be Japanese. I definitely recommend it. Many thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
January 19, 2026
Listened to this on audiobook and would like to reread in print. It has some really lovely insights into Japanese cultural values and forms of art.
January 5, 2026
The energy I'm bringing into the new year
October 20, 2025
Letter From Japan by Marie Kondo is a gentle, insightful piece of writing on simplicity, intention, and cultural connection. Unlike her previous works focused on tidying, this book feels more personal. It felt like a quiet conversation between author and reader over a warm drink. Through letters and reflections, she invites us into her world, blending the philosophy of kanso (simplicity), with the emotional depth of everyday life. I found this book incredibly grounding. It’s not just about organizing physical space, it’s about organizing the heart. Her writing is elegant just like our author and her words come off incredibly sincere. Her reflections on Japanese traditions, motherhood, and mindfulness feel especially important in times like these, when many of us are seeking clarity and calm in our busy lives. Thank you Marie Kondo, Crown Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review
Want to read
December 13, 2025WSJ review: https://www.wsj.com/arts-culture/book...
(Paywalled. As always, I'm happy to email a copy to non-subscribers)
Excerpt:
"Ms. Kondo’s “Letter From Japan,” beautifully written with the translator Marie Iida, may spark joy in even the author’s maximalist skeptics. The soft intimacy of Ms. Kondo’s prose and the dynamic threads she weaves together to explain her native country to a foreign reader simultaneously comforts and prompts introspection of the reader’s own daily routines, which is arguably the book’s mandate."
(Paywalled. As always, I'm happy to email a copy to non-subscribers)
Excerpt:
"Ms. Kondo’s “Letter From Japan,” beautifully written with the translator Marie Iida, may spark joy in even the author’s maximalist skeptics. The soft intimacy of Ms. Kondo’s prose and the dynamic threads she weaves together to explain her native country to a foreign reader simultaneously comforts and prompts introspection of the reader’s own daily routines, which is arguably the book’s mandate."
November 18, 2025
I was excited about this book because I'm interested in Japanese culture. Unfortunately, I was mostly bored. My favorite chapters would have made good magazine articles.
Read
October 19, 2025I was not super familiar with Marie Kondo's story or work, but of course, I knew her tidying methodology. I was drawn more to this book because of the exploration of Japanese culture and traditions. This book perfectly intertwined the two by exploring unique patterns, trends, and traditions in Japan and the correlations with Kondo's view on tidying.
I really enjoyed the insights she provided into Japanese food, art, language, and more and was very impressed by the profoundness of her writing. I did a lot of highlighting in this book. Whether you're a fan of Marie Kondo's work, fascinated by learning about cultures and traditions, or wanting to plan a trip to Japan, this book is for you!
Thank you to NetGalley and Crown Publishing for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I really enjoyed the insights she provided into Japanese food, art, language, and more and was very impressed by the profoundness of her writing. I did a lot of highlighting in this book. Whether you're a fan of Marie Kondo's work, fascinated by learning about cultures and traditions, or wanting to plan a trip to Japan, this book is for you!
Thank you to NetGalley and Crown Publishing for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
January 15, 2026
This was the perfect book to pick up after traveling in Japan for two weeks! It is a special book that strikes the perfect balance between informational and intimate. Kondo's writing conveys a unique voice and the pages are filled with small pieces of inspiration. I enjoyed the format because each topic felt unique yet cohensive with the overall tone. I appreciated the inclusion of quotes from artisans and experts that Kondo interviewed because it added depth to my understanding. I look forward to revisiting my favorite chapters and learning more!
Read
November 8, 2025At the time of this writing, the author Marie Kondo had transported her children to the US. This book was posed as a response to Marie Kondo's deliberation of what the quintessential Japanese values are that are worth imparting to her children, who are a long ways away from home. I found this book moving in the ways Marie Kondo took delicate joy in small things and remembrances, and in the clear fondness and pride she displayed in exploring different cultural elements she thinks Japan could share with the world. These include:
i) the pale pink sakura flowers that now grow internationally, and whose seasonal blossoming reminds viewers of cherishing the joy of ephemeral things
ii) autumn menu foods in Japan
iii) the concept of 'kawaii' or 'adorableness', now an internationally renowned phrase and cultural phenomenon, that upon closer inspection, she says, shows that it's valued because it shows quirkiness, individuality, innocence, comfort, and well-meaning. In a way, 'kawaii' objects soothe and spark joy in a serious and work-oriented society
iv) incorporating one's passions or 'oshi' in one's life, whether it's trains or anime or 15th century Japanese history and sword collecting
v) the value of reuse, reduce, repair and recycle as sustainability practices imparted in the term 'mottainai'
vi) the slow appreciation of the present, evocative atmosphere, graceful preparation and careful craftmanship of the tea ceremony
vii) using calligraphy to write one's new Year's resolutions in 'kakizome'
viii) manga as a widespread art used to convey not just emotion-laden entertainment, but knowledge and learning to the general public
ix) 'onsen' or the practice of bathing in hot springs in view of nature as a way to relax and rejuvenate
x) tidying as a way of being aware of, and caring for, one's local environment, such as the realization of removing trash and pollution and having a conservation mindset
xi) having joy and present focus in food and food presentation, exemplified by bento boxes and rice balls
xii) the stillness and simplicity of Japanese gardens
xiii) the practice of meditating underneath waterfalls
In such a way, this book was a delight to read.
i) the pale pink sakura flowers that now grow internationally, and whose seasonal blossoming reminds viewers of cherishing the joy of ephemeral things
ii) autumn menu foods in Japan
iii) the concept of 'kawaii' or 'adorableness', now an internationally renowned phrase and cultural phenomenon, that upon closer inspection, she says, shows that it's valued because it shows quirkiness, individuality, innocence, comfort, and well-meaning. In a way, 'kawaii' objects soothe and spark joy in a serious and work-oriented society
iv) incorporating one's passions or 'oshi' in one's life, whether it's trains or anime or 15th century Japanese history and sword collecting
v) the value of reuse, reduce, repair and recycle as sustainability practices imparted in the term 'mottainai'
vi) the slow appreciation of the present, evocative atmosphere, graceful preparation and careful craftmanship of the tea ceremony
vii) using calligraphy to write one's new Year's resolutions in 'kakizome'
viii) manga as a widespread art used to convey not just emotion-laden entertainment, but knowledge and learning to the general public
ix) 'onsen' or the practice of bathing in hot springs in view of nature as a way to relax and rejuvenate
x) tidying as a way of being aware of, and caring for, one's local environment, such as the realization of removing trash and pollution and having a conservation mindset
xi) having joy and present focus in food and food presentation, exemplified by bento boxes and rice balls
xii) the stillness and simplicity of Japanese gardens
xiii) the practice of meditating underneath waterfalls
In such a way, this book was a delight to read.
November 10, 2025
I can’t recommend Marie Kondo’s “Letter from Japan” enough!!!
I have loved Kondo’s “Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up” since she published it about a decade ago.
Kondo’s latest book speaks to my soul. I appreciate her exploration of Japanese history and culture to explain the foundations of her tidying methodology.
My favorite chapters:
- Kisetsu (Seasons)
- Kawaii (Cute)
- Mottainai
- Chado (Tea Ceremony)
- Onsen (Hot Spring)
- Soji (Cleaning)
- Omotenashi (Hospitality)
- Utsuwa (Vessel)
- Onigiri (Rice Ball)
- Kotoba (Language)
- Ma (Space)
So many of Kondo’s cultural beliefs resonate deeply with mine. I found the book relaxing, calming, and peaceful.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book!!!
I have loved Kondo’s “Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up” since she published it about a decade ago.
Kondo’s latest book speaks to my soul. I appreciate her exploration of Japanese history and culture to explain the foundations of her tidying methodology.
My favorite chapters:
- Kisetsu (Seasons)
- Kawaii (Cute)
- Mottainai
- Chado (Tea Ceremony)
- Onsen (Hot Spring)
- Soji (Cleaning)
- Omotenashi (Hospitality)
- Utsuwa (Vessel)
- Onigiri (Rice Ball)
- Kotoba (Language)
- Ma (Space)
So many of Kondo’s cultural beliefs resonate deeply with mine. I found the book relaxing, calming, and peaceful.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book!!!
January 7, 2026
I’m really torn as to how to rate this book. I didn’t come to this book for anything having to do with the whole tidying/organizing/downsizing thing, but rather because I saw a reference in a review as to some handy Japanese words. These terms can sometimes take the place of an entire phrase, or sometimes several sentences, in English. Irusu is just such a word in Japanese. Of course, German and other languages have done similarly (Schadenfreude anyone?).
Any way, I noted about a half dozen such words from the book. The book was generally well-written, and certainly well-translated 👍. However, the bulk of the material was not terribly interesting, at least for what I was reading it for. And some sections, like the whole silly crystal thing, was just annoying. (The waterfall bathing was cool 🥶 though.) So (4⭐️ + 4⭐️ + 3⭐️) / 3 = 3.67⭐️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ it is.
Any way, I noted about a half dozen such words from the book. The book was generally well-written, and certainly well-translated 👍. However, the bulk of the material was not terribly interesting, at least for what I was reading it for. And some sections, like the whole silly crystal thing, was just annoying. (The waterfall bathing was cool 🥶 though.) So (4⭐️ + 4⭐️ + 3⭐️) / 3 = 3.67⭐️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ it is.
November 11, 2025
What beautiful book! I love that Marie compares creating a beautiful space to a kind of prayer (Nihon Teien chapter).
I learned so much about Japanese culture while simultaneously realizing how much I have in common with Marie Kondo.
I love the way she approaches life and I definitely want to explore some of the beautiful experiences/spaces she details in her book.
“The more I learn, the more I find my curiosity and spirit of adventure to be endless.”
I learned so much about Japanese culture while simultaneously realizing how much I have in common with Marie Kondo.
I love the way she approaches life and I definitely want to explore some of the beautiful experiences/spaces she details in her book.
“The more I learn, the more I find my curiosity and spirit of adventure to be endless.”
December 18, 2025
When I saw this book my thought was that it would be a nice light read during the holidays.
I was surprised at how much I loved it! So many descriptions of Japanese culture and traditions were shared by Kondo in a delicate and charming manner.
I was pleased and impressed!
I was surprised at how much I loved it! So many descriptions of Japanese culture and traditions were shared by Kondo in a delicate and charming manner.
I was pleased and impressed!
January 6, 2026
This was a very gentle and pleasant introduction or reminder of aspects of Japanese culture. It's an easy read and informative. It's actually somewhat mentally refreshing.
I knock one star off, because it was, at times, a bit of an advert for her earlier book.
I knock one star off, because it was, at times, a bit of an advert for her earlier book.
November 23, 2025
such an interesting book about random parts of japanese culture
December 14, 2025
Some very nice things in here that I will think about a lot moving forward. Especially the idea that the cup or bowl that the food is in is just as important as the food. Aesthetics matter babe!
December 21, 2025
This was such a pleasurable read. It is my favorite genre of nonfiction book, which is short essays written by interesting people that can relax me before bed.
January 2, 2026
International treasure continues to delight. I cried real human tears.
January 3, 2026
beautiful, whimsical and deep. I loved it and learn a lot about Japan.
January 19, 2026
What a lovely read this was.
January 27, 2026
A glimpse into distinct Japanese cultural traits that Kondo often brings back to remind the reader of her own origins as the “spark joy” and “tidy home” phenomenon. This book reminded me so much of Japan.
January 2, 2026
Really enjoyed this book. It made me think more about my culture and helped me learn more about the culture of Japan! I will work to be aware of the values and rituals in my day to day.
January 1, 2026
I appreciate the explanation of how Japanese culture (at least as she grew up in, though she also goes into some history) influenced her method. She acknowledges that this was in response to non-Japanese being curious about her methods and recognizing the differences in cultures.
Also she (they? I wonder how much Marie Iida contributed to explanations and not "just" translation) explains the Japanese words and characters and how they're made up of multiple words and characters and how they mean different things.
Aesthetically, like her original books, a small hand sized hardcover without dust jacket. Lovely watercolor and gold landscape like cover. The gold makes me think of kintsugi.
The library catalogued it in biographies, but the book itself is labeled on the back "Travel-Asia-East-Japan".
I got on hold list from the library while it was still on order. Stamped Nov 2025 (it was published in Oct).
Chapter 1: CHERISH
Kisetsu - Seasons
Spring: Cherry Blossoms/Sakura.
Summer: Fireworks. The US does fireworks in summer, but not exclusively in summer, as was one of her points, and when I think of fireworks I think of the explosive disturbing sound but I enjoyed what she said about the ritual and communal enjoyment and the seasonal nature of the event. Autumn: I loved the microseason calendar she described and how it could guide or inspire daily life. P. 16-17. "In ancient Japan, people structured their years according to the kyureki, a lunisolar calendar. This hybrid timekeeping system, which considers both the phases of the moon and Earth's orbit around the sun, originated in China but was adapted in Japan to reflect the country's unique climate and natural phenomena. The kyureki divides the four seasons into six segments, creating twenty-four divisions called sekki (solar terms). The sekki is then divided further into three, resulting in seventy-two ko or micro-seasons. A sekki typically lasts about fifteen days while each ko spans roughly five days. The twenty-four sekki begins with Risshun (Beginning of Spring) in early February, progressing through the equinoxes and solstices of spring, summer, autumn, and winter, before concluding with Daikan (Greater Cold) in late January. Meanwhile the seventy-two ko often bear poetic, descriptive names. Autumn's micro-seasons, for example, include "Rice Ripens," "Farmers Drain Fields," "Crickets Chirp Around the Door," and "Maple Leaves and Ivy Turns Yellow." These evocative names not only chronicle nature's gradual transitions but also offer gentle cues on how we might align our lives with these rhythms."
Kawaii - Cute
Oshi - Favorite. Beyond a discussion of favorite things discusses fanatic collecting and special interests.
Mottainai, p. 59 "expresses profound regret over discarding or wasting something that could still serve a purpose...reflects Buddhist teachings that all things in this world are interconnected and that nothing should be taken for granted." Here is where kintsugi is mentioned. Also acknowledging it sounds like it would make her tidying (including discarding) difficult. p.66 "What do I consider most mottainai? Things that never spark joy, things that make us feel ambivalent or uneasy, lying dormant in our homes forever. Things that are never used because we fear they will change or break. Our physical environment becomes cluttered by things that hinder our ability to read the fullest potential of our lives. In the KonMari method of tidying, we learn to choose what sparks joy for us. But I feel that a lot of people forget that this is only half of the magic. The rest is about what you do - how you live - with the things that you decide to keep. Tidying teaches you to identify what you truly love, but it also changes how you live going forward. You shift into a life in which you take care of the things you have and create less waste. Things no longer overwhelm you because you are in better control of what you bring into your life."
Chapter 2: PERFECT
Chado - Tea Ceremony. One of the several instances of where Japanese life sounds so different to American, the image of high school students taking their shoes off at the entrance to the room, arranging the room, practicing the careful sections of the tea ceremony.
Do - The Way. Like above, the description of Japanese toilets, toilet papers, restrooms, the expectations of the multi functions, the cleanliness, so different of much of American and other Western experiences, and hard to believe that these would be the common occurrence in Japan. The precise train times maybe be mentioned here or elsewhere. "The Way" is about the pursuit of perfection, and as I understood it not necessarily that everything is or must be perfect.
Manga: Got into how many more subjects manga might cover and not "just" a graphic novel, cartoon story, which I can get the impression of them being.
Chapter 3: CONSIDER
Onsen - Hot Spring
Soji - Cleaning. The idea that school children daily clean and organize their schools was remarkable and slightly unbelievable. She does address how unusual this was for other countries (they lived in LA with children and they went to American school). Here she mentions Ghibli movies which have scenes of the children cleaning new-to-them spaces and making them fresh and made me think how I enjoyed those scenes without necessarily recognizing why. p. 134-137 "My Japanese elementary school taught me not to take for granted the spaces outside our homes that we share with others - schools, parks, even sidewalks. I think about this often nowadays. Behind our digital screens, it's easy to feel as though we live in isolated bubbles, letting the scope of what we consider our responsibility grow narrower. Yet, the world we live in needs our care more than ever. Learning to extend our sense of responsibility and consideration to our surrounding might be the first step we need to take today...We see Kiki open the attic window and let in some fresh air. She places the chairs from the room onto the little dining table, then brings up a big pail of water and a brush. Rolling up the sleeves of her dress and the hem of her skirt, she gets down on all fours and begins scrubbing the dust-covered floor. She smiles as she works, her eyes brimming with hope and determination. Beneath the shimmering layer of water, the floor begins to take on a new brightness. From this very room, Kiki is about to start a flying delivery service using her broomstick. The scenes of her cleaning symbolize her resolve as she embarks on this new chapter of her life... And how does My Neighbor Totoro begin? With scenes of cleaning the house, of course! Miyazaki infuses so much joy in the opening scenes where Satsuma and Mei move into their new hime. The sisters dash through the house, opening what seems like an endless number of doors and windows...Satsuki and Mei fill buckets of water from the well in their backyard, and Satsuma polishes the corridor exactly the way I did in elementary school - she literally zooms across the shot as she pushes the wet rag with her hands, her legs kicking out behind her. This scene, which never fails to make me smile, is proof that all Japanese children know how to wipe floors this way."
Omotenashi - Hospitality. Goes beyond eating but looks at how much care is taken in presenting food, serving customers or visitors
Chapter 4: SAVOR.
Umami. That taste that is neither sweet nor salty. Also about food presentation and how Japanese parents get a little obsessed with preparing bento for their children's school lunches.
Utsuwa - Vessel. Looking, as with everything, at the care in creating vessels (any container), of how they serve.
Onigiri - Rice Ball, Japan's comfort food. Again looks at the care of making, especially in creating by hand. Includes recipes for two kinds.
Chapter 5: PURIFY
Joka - Purification. talks about cleansing rituals both at home and in a temple.
Shio - Salt. I was surprised by the amount she used it, not just in food, or even in water, or bath salts, but also putting a handful or salt on top of the head and showering, and the salt lamp. And then features a maker of sea salt, Mr. Inoue. p. 223-224 "'Our bodies desire salt. We require it on a cellular level,' he said. 'Life on earth began in the sea, and the composition of the human body is similar to that of seawater. That's why it's important that the salt I make is as close as possible to the components of the sea. Natural sea salt can contain as many as seventy minerals that are naturally found in the sea. It can restore our health from the inside.' Mr. Inoue also shared with me what he loves most about his profession - it allows people to notice something fundamental: our connection to the ocean and the natural environment. Our relationship with nature is symbiotic. Protecting our environment is the same as protecting ourselves. Salt may appear to be a simple, everyday seasoning, but it carries the memories of the sea, the forest, and the rain. Each grain holds a gift from the natural wold, something to be savored with intention. For me, salt is more than a seasoning: it purifies both body and spirit, and nothing else feels quite as restorative."
Takigyo - Waterfall Meditation
Chapter 6: HARMONIZE
Nihon Teien - Japanese-Style Garden. She starts admitting how she always loved the more lush English type gardens. Then goes on to look at how the Japanese gardens shows and features space differently and encourage different use of the senses and serve as place for reflection. p. 251 "The experience of tranquility, found in a Japanese garden, connects our hearts to Japan and to our most authentic selves, no matter where we are or where we come from. It feels like a gentle letter from Japan, addressed with care to us all."
Jinja - Shrine. Discusses her experience as a shrine maiden and of seeking out shrines in new spaces, especially on moving to a new community.
Kotoba - Language. Discusses the differences between Japanese and English and her experiences on working outside of Japan, translation, and speaking English herself.
Ma - Space. Discussing different kinds of space, including time and emotion. Starts with the experience of filming the Netflix shows and seeing that crew expected her to talk or keep things moving constantly where she wanted to give clients time and quiet to feel what they were feeling.
Also she (they? I wonder how much Marie Iida contributed to explanations and not "just" translation) explains the Japanese words and characters and how they're made up of multiple words and characters and how they mean different things.
Aesthetically, like her original books, a small hand sized hardcover without dust jacket. Lovely watercolor and gold landscape like cover. The gold makes me think of kintsugi.
The library catalogued it in biographies, but the book itself is labeled on the back "Travel-Asia-East-Japan".
I got on hold list from the library while it was still on order. Stamped Nov 2025 (it was published in Oct).
Chapter 1: CHERISH
Kisetsu - Seasons
Spring: Cherry Blossoms/Sakura.
Summer: Fireworks. The US does fireworks in summer, but not exclusively in summer, as was one of her points, and when I think of fireworks I think of the explosive disturbing sound but I enjoyed what she said about the ritual and communal enjoyment and the seasonal nature of the event. Autumn: I loved the microseason calendar she described and how it could guide or inspire daily life. P. 16-17. "In ancient Japan, people structured their years according to the kyureki, a lunisolar calendar. This hybrid timekeeping system, which considers both the phases of the moon and Earth's orbit around the sun, originated in China but was adapted in Japan to reflect the country's unique climate and natural phenomena. The kyureki divides the four seasons into six segments, creating twenty-four divisions called sekki (solar terms). The sekki is then divided further into three, resulting in seventy-two ko or micro-seasons. A sekki typically lasts about fifteen days while each ko spans roughly five days. The twenty-four sekki begins with Risshun (Beginning of Spring) in early February, progressing through the equinoxes and solstices of spring, summer, autumn, and winter, before concluding with Daikan (Greater Cold) in late January. Meanwhile the seventy-two ko often bear poetic, descriptive names. Autumn's micro-seasons, for example, include "Rice Ripens," "Farmers Drain Fields," "Crickets Chirp Around the Door," and "Maple Leaves and Ivy Turns Yellow." These evocative names not only chronicle nature's gradual transitions but also offer gentle cues on how we might align our lives with these rhythms."
Kawaii - Cute
Oshi - Favorite. Beyond a discussion of favorite things discusses fanatic collecting and special interests.
Mottainai, p. 59 "expresses profound regret over discarding or wasting something that could still serve a purpose...reflects Buddhist teachings that all things in this world are interconnected and that nothing should be taken for granted." Here is where kintsugi is mentioned. Also acknowledging it sounds like it would make her tidying (including discarding) difficult. p.66 "What do I consider most mottainai? Things that never spark joy, things that make us feel ambivalent or uneasy, lying dormant in our homes forever. Things that are never used because we fear they will change or break. Our physical environment becomes cluttered by things that hinder our ability to read the fullest potential of our lives. In the KonMari method of tidying, we learn to choose what sparks joy for us. But I feel that a lot of people forget that this is only half of the magic. The rest is about what you do - how you live - with the things that you decide to keep. Tidying teaches you to identify what you truly love, but it also changes how you live going forward. You shift into a life in which you take care of the things you have and create less waste. Things no longer overwhelm you because you are in better control of what you bring into your life."
Chapter 2: PERFECT
Chado - Tea Ceremony. One of the several instances of where Japanese life sounds so different to American, the image of high school students taking their shoes off at the entrance to the room, arranging the room, practicing the careful sections of the tea ceremony.
Do - The Way. Like above, the description of Japanese toilets, toilet papers, restrooms, the expectations of the multi functions, the cleanliness, so different of much of American and other Western experiences, and hard to believe that these would be the common occurrence in Japan. The precise train times maybe be mentioned here or elsewhere. "The Way" is about the pursuit of perfection, and as I understood it not necessarily that everything is or must be perfect.
Manga: Got into how many more subjects manga might cover and not "just" a graphic novel, cartoon story, which I can get the impression of them being.
Chapter 3: CONSIDER
Onsen - Hot Spring
Soji - Cleaning. The idea that school children daily clean and organize their schools was remarkable and slightly unbelievable. She does address how unusual this was for other countries (they lived in LA with children and they went to American school). Here she mentions Ghibli movies which have scenes of the children cleaning new-to-them spaces and making them fresh and made me think how I enjoyed those scenes without necessarily recognizing why. p. 134-137 "My Japanese elementary school taught me not to take for granted the spaces outside our homes that we share with others - schools, parks, even sidewalks. I think about this often nowadays. Behind our digital screens, it's easy to feel as though we live in isolated bubbles, letting the scope of what we consider our responsibility grow narrower. Yet, the world we live in needs our care more than ever. Learning to extend our sense of responsibility and consideration to our surrounding might be the first step we need to take today...We see Kiki open the attic window and let in some fresh air. She places the chairs from the room onto the little dining table, then brings up a big pail of water and a brush. Rolling up the sleeves of her dress and the hem of her skirt, she gets down on all fours and begins scrubbing the dust-covered floor. She smiles as she works, her eyes brimming with hope and determination. Beneath the shimmering layer of water, the floor begins to take on a new brightness. From this very room, Kiki is about to start a flying delivery service using her broomstick. The scenes of her cleaning symbolize her resolve as she embarks on this new chapter of her life... And how does My Neighbor Totoro begin? With scenes of cleaning the house, of course! Miyazaki infuses so much joy in the opening scenes where Satsuma and Mei move into their new hime. The sisters dash through the house, opening what seems like an endless number of doors and windows...Satsuki and Mei fill buckets of water from the well in their backyard, and Satsuma polishes the corridor exactly the way I did in elementary school - she literally zooms across the shot as she pushes the wet rag with her hands, her legs kicking out behind her. This scene, which never fails to make me smile, is proof that all Japanese children know how to wipe floors this way."
Omotenashi - Hospitality. Goes beyond eating but looks at how much care is taken in presenting food, serving customers or visitors
Chapter 4: SAVOR.
Umami. That taste that is neither sweet nor salty. Also about food presentation and how Japanese parents get a little obsessed with preparing bento for their children's school lunches.
Utsuwa - Vessel. Looking, as with everything, at the care in creating vessels (any container), of how they serve.
Onigiri - Rice Ball, Japan's comfort food. Again looks at the care of making, especially in creating by hand. Includes recipes for two kinds.
Chapter 5: PURIFY
Joka - Purification. talks about cleansing rituals both at home and in a temple.
Shio - Salt. I was surprised by the amount she used it, not just in food, or even in water, or bath salts, but also putting a handful or salt on top of the head and showering, and the salt lamp. And then features a maker of sea salt, Mr. Inoue. p. 223-224 "'Our bodies desire salt. We require it on a cellular level,' he said. 'Life on earth began in the sea, and the composition of the human body is similar to that of seawater. That's why it's important that the salt I make is as close as possible to the components of the sea. Natural sea salt can contain as many as seventy minerals that are naturally found in the sea. It can restore our health from the inside.' Mr. Inoue also shared with me what he loves most about his profession - it allows people to notice something fundamental: our connection to the ocean and the natural environment. Our relationship with nature is symbiotic. Protecting our environment is the same as protecting ourselves. Salt may appear to be a simple, everyday seasoning, but it carries the memories of the sea, the forest, and the rain. Each grain holds a gift from the natural wold, something to be savored with intention. For me, salt is more than a seasoning: it purifies both body and spirit, and nothing else feels quite as restorative."
Takigyo - Waterfall Meditation
Chapter 6: HARMONIZE
Nihon Teien - Japanese-Style Garden. She starts admitting how she always loved the more lush English type gardens. Then goes on to look at how the Japanese gardens shows and features space differently and encourage different use of the senses and serve as place for reflection. p. 251 "The experience of tranquility, found in a Japanese garden, connects our hearts to Japan and to our most authentic selves, no matter where we are or where we come from. It feels like a gentle letter from Japan, addressed with care to us all."
Jinja - Shrine. Discusses her experience as a shrine maiden and of seeking out shrines in new spaces, especially on moving to a new community.
Kotoba - Language. Discusses the differences between Japanese and English and her experiences on working outside of Japan, translation, and speaking English herself.
Ma - Space. Discussing different kinds of space, including time and emotion. Starts with the experience of filming the Netflix shows and seeing that crew expected her to talk or keep things moving constantly where she wanted to give clients time and quiet to feel what they were feeling.
November 11, 2025
I was pleasantly surprised by the depth of this book and the careful thought that went into explaining the essence or the Japaneseness of what Kondo lives by and teaches. You won't learn to fold anything in this book, but you will learn the why of the folding. You will also learn a lot more about the author. It is thought provoking and very relevant to our world today.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. I was delighted by it.
Thank you to NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. I was delighted by it.
January 31, 2026
This is such a wonderful little book. Even if you didn't subscribe to the Kon-Mari method, this is worth a look, especially if you have any interest in Japan. Sections were divided into words like "Cherish" "Savor" "Purify" and within those are chapters on everything from Japanese spas (onsen), food (onigiri), and empty spaces (ma). Japanese culture is so different from American and it was enlightening to learn what some of those different concepts are, sometimes why they are, and how to incorporate them into your own life.
I learned some valuable things about slowing down and connecting with nature, my personal interests, and all things kawaii (cute). Plus I jotted down a bunch of travel ideas for when I, one day, get to Japan.
Audiobook - read by a British actress, Hanaka Footman, light ambient music at the start of chapters
I learned some valuable things about slowing down and connecting with nature, my personal interests, and all things kawaii (cute). Plus I jotted down a bunch of travel ideas for when I, one day, get to Japan.
Audiobook - read by a British actress, Hanaka Footman, light ambient music at the start of chapters
January 2, 2026
A bit repetitive for me. And I'm not sure I got what she was on about some of the time. I love Japan but I'm not sure I got any closer to understanding it more.
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