5 Best Japanese Authors to Read in 2024

Finding the best Japanese authors? Check out our top picks with humor and heart for new readers!
Norwegian Wood coverThe Devotion of Suspect X coverKitchen cover

Embarking on a journey through the best Japanese authors can feel like stepping into a world of beauty, mystery, and deep emotions. We focus on picking books that not only capture the essence of Japanese culture but also grab your attention from the first page. Whether you like thrilling mysteries, heartfelt romance, or mind-bending tales, our list of top reads has something for everyone. Let’s dive into these top five recommendations by the best Japanese authors!

On this list:

5 Norwegian Wood by Haruki Murakami

Norwegian Wood cover

  • Genre: Fiction
  • Formats: Kindle, Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook
  • Year released: 1987
  • Pages: 296

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

A coming-of-age story that is moody, introspective, and filled with melancholy. It takes you back to your own youthful days.

4 The Devotion of Suspect X by Keigo Higashino

The Devotion of Suspect X cover

  • Genre: Mystery, Crime
  • Formats: Kindle, Hardcover, Paperback
  • Year released: 2005
  • Pages: 372

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

A smartly crafted mystery novel that keeps you guessing till the end. The plot twist is both unexpected and clever.

3 Kitchen by Banana Yoshimoto

Kitchen cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Contemporary
  • Formats: Kindle, Hardcover, Paperback
  • Year released: 1988
  • Pages: 150

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

A short but touching novel that weaves themes of love, loss, and the healing power of food. Perfect for a cozy read.

2 Out by Natsuo Kirino

Out cover

  • Genre: Thriller, Crime
  • Formats: Kindle, Hardcover, Paperback
  • Year released: 1997
  • Pages: 400

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

A gritty thriller that showcases the dark side of suburban life. It’s intense, unflinching, and unforgettable.

1 Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami

Kafka on the Shore cover

  • Genre: Fiction, Magical Realism
  • Formats: Kindle, Hardcover, Paperback, Audiobook
  • Year released: 2002
  • Pages: 467

Get your copy on Amazon ↗

A magical and mysterious journey that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. This book is our top pick because it encapsulates the best of Murakami’s surreal and gripping storytelling. It’s got talking cats, raining fish, and a plot that will make you question everything.

Steve Peterson Cartoonified
Steve Peterson

Hi there! I'm Steve Peterson, a passionate reading enthusiast who loves nothing more than getting lost in a good book. My love for literature spans across genres, from thrilling mysteries and gripping fantasy to thought-provoking non-fiction.

I hope my reviews help you find the perfect next book to dive into!