Another Japan: Life and Culture Beyond the Metropolis

A Coffee Table Mags pick for Japan lovers — rural life, everyday culture and quiet beauty beyond the usual Tokyo/Kyoto image.

Another Japan moves away from familiar cityscapes and clichés to explore Japan’s smaller towns and rural regions.

Created by Tokyo-based photographer Irwin Wong and writer Rob Goss, the book follows the rhythm of seasons, local festivals, workshops, homes and everyday rituals. Rather than explaining Japan from the outside, it observes patiently: craft, food, landscapes, architecture, regional traditions and the people keeping local culture alive. A beautifully produced book for readers interested in Japan, travel, photography, slow culture and places beyond the obvious route.

About the authors
Irwin Wong is a Tokyo-based photographer from Melbourne whose work focuses on Japanese culture, place and everyday life. His photography often combines precision, atmosphere and a strong sense of visual storytelling.
Rob Goss is a UK-born, Tokyo-based writer specialising in Japanese culture, travel and contemporary life. He has written widely about Japan, with a focus on the stories, places and traditions that sit beyond the usual tourist image.

About gestalten
gestalten is a Berlin-based publisher known for visually driven books on design, architecture, interiors, travel, food, culture and contemporary creativity. Its books often sit between reference, inspiration and coffee-table object — made for readers who care about both content and production.