Take an incredible journey back in time to the land of the rising sun. Marvel at fabulous treasures and tales of samurai, shoguns, and sumo. Travel across more than 2000 years of history as you visit the ancient islands of Japan. See the stunning masks of the Noh theater and watch sumo wrestlers in action. Marvel at the weapons and armor used by a mighty samurai and discover mythical tales of demons, gods, and goddesses. Dozens of Japanese treasures are depicted in detailed full-color illustrations accompanied by fascinating facts about their use, lore, and history. DOZENS OF ARTIFACTS: Learn about 36 iconic objects, from a samurai warrior’s armour to a Noh theatre performer’s mask. BEAUTIFULLY ILLUSTRATED: Vibrant, detailed images of the art, objects, people, and icons of the Japanese civilization. FASCINATING FACTS: Includes hundreds of amazing facts about Japanese treasures in an easy-to-read format that will enthral budding historians of all ages. CLASSROOM TO COFFEE TABLE: This beautiful volume is equally at home on a school bookshelf to support student learning as in a living room to be enjoyed by the whole family. COLLECT THE SERIES: More fascinating compendiums for all ages include The Magnificent Book of Treasures: Vikings, The Magnificent Book of Treasures: Ancient Rome, and The Magnificent Book of Treasures: Ancient Egypt.

In 1945, US intelligence officers in Manila discovered that the Japanese had hidden large quantities of gold bullion and other looted treasure in the Philippines. President Truman decided to recover the gold but to keep its riches secret. These, combined with Japanese treasure recovered during the US occupation, and with recovered Nazi loot, would create a worldwide American political action fund to fight communism. This 'Black Gold' gave Washington virtually limitless, unaccountable funds, providing an asset base to reinforce the treasuries of America's allies, to bribe political and military leaders, and to manipulate elections in foreign countries for more than fifty years.

Looks at Professor Risley's introduction of the Western-style circus to Japan in 1864 and his subsequent tours of the country with the Imperial Japanese Troupe of acrobats, an encounter that opened both cultures to one another.

Connoisseur's Book Japanese Swords is a Kodansha International publication.