5 classic Japanese science fiction books for fans of the genre

There are many science fiction works that have their origins in Japan, especially those related to the world of anime and manga. Even if you like the latter, you are surely familiar with works like AkiraOr Ghost in the Shell, or Gray, or Alita. Especially in the 1980s, this species was particularly fruitful in the Land of the Rising Sun.

But what not everyone knows is that there are also many Japanese science fiction books that every fan of the genre should know about. Despite the obvious cultural differences, some of them have also been published in our country with greater or less importance. Here we leave you the ones that, at least in our opinion, are the most interesting.

Japan speculation

If what you prefer is classic science fiction, sometimes mixed with fantasy or even horror, the anthology Speculative Japan, published by Satori Ediciones, is one of those works that you cannot miss from your own library.

It's about A very fine collection that brings together classic Japanese authors to create a very special Asian take on the genrewith some truly original and imaginative stories, the kind that stay in your memory for a long time.

Battle Royale

This novel was written by Koshun Takami in 1999, and takes place in the near future a Literature of the corrupt city Which sparked a lot of controversy in his country of origin. So much so that the work not only became a bestseller, but also inspired all kinds of adaptations.

In fact, even many people who know nothing about the book have heard of it or even read the manga inspired by it or seen the film of the same name, which was also a huge hit in Japan and is today considered practically a cult by some movie buffs. .

Japan is sinking

If we were to talk about one of the science fiction novels par excellence, it would probably be The Sinking of Japan, which is very popular in its country of origin, and which took 50 years to reach Spain (by Minotauro).

With many scientific elements and a comprehensive review of Japanese society at the time, as well as the politics of the time, Japan Sinking inspired works such as Godzilla.. If you're a fan of classic sci-fi and Japan catches your eye, it can't be missing from your collection either.

Moonlight: Pioneers of Japanese Science Fiction

It was from the 1950s onwards, and especially after Japan's mid-era world premiere of the monster horror film (the first Godzilla film), that Japanese science fiction began to open up to the world. This book, also published by Satori Publishing House Good article on this topic.

Additionally, it includes complete stories that give an accurate view of the genre on all levels.

1Q84

One of the most famous Japanese authors in the West, Haruki Murakami, has also taken his first steps into what might be considered science fiction. Always, yes, Within his own style, which readers love and hate in equal measure.

This is reflected in 1Q84, his bizarre homage, so to speak, to the famous 1984 novel by George Orwell.

Logically, there are many classic Japanese science fiction books that every fan of the genre should know, but if what you are looking for is to start with some of the more famous books, then within this collection you will find an attractive and diverse proposition. You will not be disappointed.