Japan's Best-Selling Novels of All Time

Japan has a rich literary history, and some novels have captivated millions of readers over the years.
Below is a ranking of the top 10 best-selling novels in Japan as of 2021, along with insights into why Japanese readers love them.
Books & Manga

1. Norwegian Wood (ノルウェイの森)


by Haruki Murakami
Published: 1987
Sales: Around 10 million copies
Why Japanese Readers Love It: A story of youth, love, and loss, this novel deeply resonated with readers, especially young adults, for its melancholic yet poetic narrative.

2. Totto-chan: The Little Girl at the Window (窓ぎわのトットちゃん)


by Tetsuko Kuroyanagi
Published: 1981
Sales: Around 8 million copies
Why Japanese Readers Love It: This autobiographical novel about an unconventional school and its free-spirited education system brought a sense of nostalgia and inspiration to many readers.

3. Kokoro (こころ)


by Natsume Sōseki
Published: 1914
Sales: Around 7.5 million copies
Why Japanese Readers Love It: A literary classic, this novel explores deep psychological themes of loneliness, morality, and human nature, making it a timeless favorite.

4. No Longer Human (人間失格)


by Osamu Dazai
Published: 1948
Sales: Around 7.1 million copies
Why Japanese Readers Love It: A dark and introspective novel, this book captures the struggles of identity, self-worth, and alienation, resonating deeply with many readers.

5. The Diary of a Young Girl (アンネの日記)


by Anne Frank
Published: 1947
Sales: Around 6 million copies
Why Japanese Readers Love It: A harrowing firsthand account of wartime struggles, this book has been widely read in Japan, inspiring empathy and reflection.

6. The Little Prince (星の王子さま)

by Antoine de Saint-Exupéry
Published: 1943
Sales: Around 6 million copies
Why Japanese Readers Love It: A poetic and philosophical tale, this book has touched the hearts of readers of all ages with its profound messages on love, friendship, and loss.

7. Eternal Zero (永遠の0) by Naoki Hyakuta

Published: 2006
Sales: Around 5.4 million copies
Why Japanese Readers Love It: This novel's blend of historical fiction and family drama struck a chord with many, offering an emotional journey through Japan’s wartime past.

8. Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone (ハリー・ポッターと賢者の石)

by J.K. Rowling
Published in Japan: 1999
Sales: Around 5 million copies
Why Japanese Readers Love It: The magical world of Harry Potter captivated Japanese readers, making it one of the best-selling foreign books in Japan.

9. The Old Man and the Sea (老人と海)

by Ernest Hemingway
Published: 1952
Sales: Around 4.9 million copies
Why Japanese Readers Love It: A classic tale of resilience and perseverance, this novel has remained popular among Japanese literature enthusiasts.

10. Botchan (坊っちゃん)

by Natsume Sōseki
Published: 1906
Sales: Around 4.3 million copies
Why Japanese Readers Love It: A humorous and relatable story, Botchan’s rebellious protagonist and satirical tone have made it a beloved classic in Japanese literature.

Conclusion

The popularity of these novels in Japan reflects deep cultural themes, from nostalgia and education to psychological introspection and escapism.
Many of these books have also gained international recognition, showcasing Japan’s literary influence worldwide.

 

Whether you're a fan of coming-of-age stories, magical adventures, or philosophical musings, there's a best-seller from Japan for you to explore.