This month, I went to Japan for the most incredibly fun, exciting and inspirational two week vacation. My husband and I went to Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, and I stopped by a children’s book store at each major city in search of a picture book gem to bring home with me. I had to stop myself from buying all the adorable, beautiful picture books, but I did find quite a few I couldn’t leave without. I wish I knew how to speak Japanese so I could actually read these enchanting stories, but as I always do for these posts, I will focus on the amazing artwork. And as soon as I have the chance, I plan to visit my grandma for story time and translations for my new treasures. Regardless of the language, the best thing about picture books is the art speaks for itself. Here are a few of my favorite finds from my art-filled vacation. (Note: All translated information below is correct to the best of my knowledge, but please forgive me if I’ve gotten any of it wrong.)
I found the following collection of picture books at the most adorable children’s bookstore I’ve ever been to, Crayon House, in Tokyo.
The illustrations of the forest and nature made me think of my early morning walk through Yoyogi Park. It was so peaceful and relaxing, and Doi’s illustrations captured this feeling exactly in her forest scenes. Flipping through this picture book felt like being in a child’s dream or fairy tale, so delightful and enchanting.
Chirri and Chirra was translated into English, and you can find it on Amazon:
https://www.amazon.com/Chirri-Chirra-Kaya-Doi/dp/159270199X/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1525065120&sr=8-1&keywords=chirri+and+chirra
I love Arai’s different perspectives on the world he creates, including the bird’s eye view of the city below. With so many skyscraper buildings and high-rises in Tokyo, it’s easy to see why Arai would choose to create a view of the bright bustling city contrasted with the darkness of the lush park in the distance. I found the link for this book on Japan’s Amazon, but unfortunately was not able to find an English version.
https://www.amazon.com/Mountain-Flowers-R-I-C-Story-Chest/dp/1741264413/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1525067427&sr=1-2
https://www.amazon.com/Millies-Marvellous-Hat-Satoshi-Kitamura/dp/0761351531/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1525069145&sr=8-1&keywords=millie%27s+marvelous+hat
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