Who Invented Natto? – Encyclopedia of Japanese Daily Life【Japanese–English Bilingual Edition】(Dual-Language Nippon Series)

Who Invented Natto? is a fascinating bilingual guide to everyday Japanese life — the things everyone in Japan grows up surrounded by, yet often struggles to explain in English. From tokonoma alcoves and kimono to kitchen tools, katsuobushi, and traditional foods, this book explores the full world of Japanese clothing, food, and housing (衣・食・住 / i-shoku-jū).

Written by both a Japanese and a British author who have lived immersed in Japanese culture, the book approaches Japan from two perspectives. Although raised in completely different environments — one in the Japanese countryside and the other in an English city — both authors now share a lifestyle featuring tatami rooms, clay pot cooking, traditional crafts, and even a love of natto. Their combined viewpoint makes the explanations especially accessible to international readers.

Each topic is presented in Japanese and English side-by-side, allowing readers to naturally build vocabulary while learning cultural context. The book does not simply define objects — it explains how they are used in real life, including etiquette, practical advice, and cultural trivia. You will learn how a Japanese home works, what items appear in daily meals, and why certain customs exist.

Perfect for students of Japanese language, travelers, or anyone who wants to explain Japan to others, this volume acts as both a cultural handbook and a language learning tool. After reading it, you will be able to confidently describe aspects of Japanese life that many learners struggle to put into words.

Why You’ll Love It

• Explains Japanese daily life in clear English and Japanese

• Covers housing, food, tools, traditions, and etiquette

• Ideal for foreigners living in Japan or planning to visit

• Great vocabulary builder for Japanese learners

• Combines cultural education with practical language learning

Product Details

Authors: Yoko Toyozaki & Stuart Varnam-Atkin

Translator: Sawada-gumi

Publisher: IBC Publishing

Language: Japanese & English (bilingual)

Pages: 228 pages

Dimensions: 17.78 × 1.27 × 25.4 cm

Format: Paperback