Joint Catalogue for the Tokyo Antiquarian Book Fair now available!

Japan's rich history of printing and publishing gives it a significant place in print culture. The history of Japanese book and print culture is one of innovation, artistic excellence, and a deep appreciation for the written word and the visual arts.
Dating back to the 8th century, woodblock printing was instrumental in the dissemination of texts, art and knowledge in Japan. The technique involved carving characters or images into wooden blocks, which were then inked and pressed onto paper.
Centuries before Gutenberg's printing press in Europe, Japan developed its own technology for printing movable type, known as "movable type woodblock printing". This innovation made it possible to efficiently print multiple copies of texts and contributed to the spread of literacy and literature.
Japanese literature boasts many masterpieces that have left an everlasting mark on world literature. Works such as "The Tale of Genji" by Murasaki Shikibu and the poetry of Matsuo Bashō exemplify Japan's rich literary tradition.
Japan has always had, and continues to have, a thriving publishing industry covering a wide range of genres, including literature, manga and academic works. Publishers such as Kodansha, Shueisha and Kadokawa are world-renowned for their contributions to literature and popular culture.
Japanese printmaking, particularly ukiyo-e woodblock prints, gained international acclaim in the 19th century and influenced Western art movements such as Impressionism. Artists such as Katsushika Hokusai and Utagawa Hiroshige are celebrated for their iconic works.
Japanese literature, manga and printing techniques have had a significant global impact, shaping cultural trends and artistic movements beyond Japan's borders.

IMPRESSIONS OF THE 2022 TOKYO ANTIQUARIAN BOOK FAIR

The Antiquarian Booksellers Association of Japan (ABAJ) invites you to the 2024 edition of the Tokyo International Antiquarian Book Fair, to be held from 15 to 17 March at the Tokyo Traffic Hall.

The fair has been running for over 40 years: The 2012 fair was held in Kyoto, and the 2015, 2018 and 2022 fairs were held in Tokyo.

2024 FAIR CATALOGUE

For the 2024 edition, the association has once again published a joint catalogue, which can be viewed and downloaded HERE.

ABAJ President and Fair Chairman, Kitazawa Ichiro, writes:

As we head into spring, I hope that everyone is enjoying the best of health. I would like to thank each member of the ABAJ Antiquarian Booksellers Association of Japan) for their tireless efforts and support which makes this book fair possible.
Today, against the backdrop of a turbulent international situation with many demands for change, I trust the value of books is rising increasingly. On this occasion, the fair is made possible by 28 booksellers from both Japan and overseas, and I would like to extend my warmest welcome to our customers and visitors.

For all information about the Tokyo Antiquarian Book Fair, please visit the >> WEBSITE