Letter From Japan

by Marie Iida

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 arts, rituals and sensibilities of Japan.”

Though she’s known for “tidying up” and “sparking joy,” there’s more to Marie Kondo than her love of 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 Kondo herself and the culture that is intrinsic to her tidying method.

In Letter from Japan, Kondo responds to 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 isn’t only a response to her audience’s fervent desire to get to know the woman behind the show; it’s a manifesto for her three children, a documentation of the foundational elements of their culture that is essential to their understanding of the world around them.

With subtle and lyrical prose, Kondo embarks on her most personal and affirming book yet, holding onto the customs that not only spark joy but also preserve them for future generations.

Genres: Nonfiction, Japan, Memoir, Audiobook, Travel, Biography, Japanese Literature

320 pages, Hardcover

Published October 16, 2025

Reviews

[Stacy (Gotham City Librarian) · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.)

[L.A. Starks · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Ellen Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[CatReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

[Lilisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Stephanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Asia Macdonald · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

[La gata lectora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Qué maravilloso viaje por la cultura japonesa.

Marie Kondo nos habla de las costumbres, tradiciones y conceptos filosóficos que sustentan la cultura japonesa y que a ella le influyeron para crear su método Konmari.

Cada capítulo está dedicado a un concepto, algunos famosos en occidente como Kintsugi, Umami, Chado, Oshi… y otros no tan conocidos. Nos explica en qué consisten, de dónde vienen, cómo se viven en la sociedad japonesa y cómo le influyeron a ella en su vida y en su método.

Unos 20 conceptos para cambiar tu vida y alinear tu contexto con la vida que quieres llevar, con la persona que quieres ser.

Este no es un libro de orden y organización, es un libro para incorporar otra forma de pensar en los cimientos de tu forma de ver y de estar en el mundo, que inevitablemente influirán en ti, en tu casa y en la forma de relacionarte con ella y con la vida.

5⭐️ siempre fan de Japón, siempre fan de Marie Kondo

[Kristina · Rating 5 out of 5]

I learned so much about Japanese culture through this book. I highly recommend that everyone checks this one out. I loved learning about traditions, values, and the overall culture. Tea ceremonies, change of seasons and every day life in Japan is highlighted in this book. It’s beautiful and personal. Thank you Marie Kondo for this gift. It sparked so much joy.

[Kendra · Rating 5 out of 5]

The energy I'm bringing into the new year

[Tonetta · Rating 5 out of 5]

Libro molto carino, tanti bei racconti su usanze giapponesi che portano gioia e armonia. Veramente piacevole. Viene voglia di replicare alcune cose.

[Peter Tillman]

WSJ 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."

[natalie · Rating 2 out of 5]

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.

[Meggan]

I 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.

[acorn · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Wendelle]

At 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.

[Kristen · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!!!

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Letter From Japan comes more than ten years since the English-language publication of the worldwide phenomenon The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up. For fans of Marie Kondo's original work, this is a nice companion piece showcasing how her philosophy of tidying was born in and inspired by Japan and its culture.

Kondo explores Japanese culture, including the history of kawaii, the spirit of mastery, and onsen, and how Japanese culture has influenced the way she views and interacts with the world. I really enjoyed the format of short chapters exploring each Japanese cultural element, mixing a digestible history session with Kondo's own experiences and take.

[Steve · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Vanessa Ya Lopez · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.”

[Stacy · Rating 4 out of 5]

In her latest book, Marie Kondo, tidying expert, shares her favorite aspects of Japanese culture and how she incorporates them into her daily life.

A few of my favorite elements from the book include celebrating the seasons, Japanese ceramics, hot springs, tea ceremonies, purification rituals, visiting, shrines, and her observations of how cleaning rituals are incorporated into Studio Ghibli movies.

I hope someday I can visit Japan and experience this unique and beautiful culture.

[Heidi Burkhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[Owen · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Allie Jo Arendell · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful little book about different mindfulness practices in Japanese culture- Kondo’s “magic of tidying” being one of many she highlights. Inspiring! Made me want to slow down and smell some tea leaves…

[brianna maphis · Rating 5 out of 5]

such an interesting book about random parts of japanese culture

[Michael Antonelli · Rating 5 out of 5]

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!

[RaspberryRoses · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Daniel · Rating 5 out of 5]

International treasure continues to delight. I cried real human tears.

[Huda · Rating 5 out of 5]

beautiful, whimsical and deep. I loved it and learn a lot about Japan.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a lovely read this was.