Celebrating 111 Years: Hakusuisha Launches New Humanities Series

Hakusuisha's Exciting New Venture: 'Door to Humanities'

As Hakusuisha celebrates its 111th anniversary in 2026, the renowned publishing company is set to launch a new series titled 'Door to Humanities'. This initiative aims to revisit and make accessible a curated selection of significant humanities works, ensuring they remain in circulation for generations to come.

The series will kick off on January 29, 2026, featuring three pivotal titles:

- 'The Indian Independence Activist 'Asako' by Ryohei Kasai

This non-fiction work sheds light on the extraordinary fate of Asako, born in Kobe, who immersed herself in the Indian independence movement, providing a fresh perspective on Japan-India relations.

- 'An Introduction to Japan’s Night Public Sphere: Snack Research' edited by Koichi Taniguchi and the Snack Research Group

This thought-provoking title explores the reasons behind nocturnal singing and the cultural phenomenon of visiting snack bars in Japan, applying social science scrutiny for the first time.

- 'Donald Keene: My Journey in Learning Japanese' by Donald Keene and Yuka Kawaji

In this reflective narrative, the literary giant shares his journey of mastering the Japanese language, revealing how it shaped his life-long career and devotion to Japanese literature.

The second set of publications is slated for late February 2026, with subsequent releases continuing throughout the year, ensuring a steady stream of enriching content for enthusiasts of the humanities.

The Essence of 'Door to Humanities'

Curated Classics

This innovative series will encompass acclaimed works that have been recognized and appreciated since their initial publication. The aim is to preserve these timeless texts that represent the essence of humanities scholarship.

An International Perspective

With a history of providing translations of foreign publications, Hakusuisha is uniquely positioned to offer a diverse range of titles that include both domestic and international authors, catering to readers’ varied interests.

Reader-Friendly Format

The books will be published in a convenient trade paperback format, featuring elegant and cohesive designs, making them accessible and visually appealing for readers.

The Significance of Humanities Today

As we navigate a rapidly changing world, the importance of humanities literature has resurged. With increasing interest in themes of 'hope' and 'happiness,' the series aims to engage readers in thoughtful discussions about their lives and society.

In a world where humanities often face neglect, Hakusuisha’s 'Door to Humanities' seeks to reinvigorate the exploration of how individuals should live in a complex society. This collection is inspired by the literary pursuits of the past, where books were a source of inquiry and reflection for young minds during the Taisho era.

Hakusuisha invites readers to embark on this journey with them, pondering over the role of humanities literature in today's society, and looking forward to their evolution in the coming decades.

For more information and to stay updated about upcoming releases, visit the special website for 'Door to Humanities'.