Letter from Japan

By: Marie Kondo, Marie Iida

Narrated by: Hanako Footman, Marie Kondo

In her most personal book yet, the iconic star of the hit Netflix series Tidying Up with Marie Kondo and #1 bestselling author of The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up opens up about the cultural traditions that have inspired her philosophy—and can make our lives better today.

“This book represents guiding principles by which I lead my life every day. They also define, at least for me, the values that flow through the customs, traditions, arts and sensibilities of Japan.”

Though she’s known for “tidying up” and “sparking joy,” there’s more to Marie Kondo than her fervent desire to help you better appreciate your mess. Across book tours and international conferences, it became clear that her audience, while interested in how to keep their lives tidy, was also keen to learn about Marie herself and the culture that is intrinsic to her tidying method.

Written with her television co-star Marie Iida, in Letter from Japan, Marie reflects on the myriad questions she received about her inspirations by examining the Japanese customs that she grew up with—minute details of tea ceremonies, the art of taking care of gardens, and the power of passing seasons—with her trademark gentle wisdom. But this book isn’t only a response to her audience’s wish to know the real Marie Kondo; it’s a testament for her three children, a documentation of the foundational elements of their culture, despite the rapidly changing times, which is essential to their understanding of the world around them.

With subtle and lyrical prose, Marie embarks on her most personal and affirming book yet, unveiling for her readers the customs, traditions, and practices that not only spark joy for her, but also to preserve them for future generations.

Critic reviews

“Fans won’t find tidying tips here, but they will get a valuable glimpse into Kondo’s underlying philosophy of balance, peace, and respect for all cultures.”—Booklist

Understanding Kondo

It was lovely spending time understanding the inspirations and teachings leading to the success of this lovely human

So gratifying that when finished, I started over again.

Marie speaks from heart/head, in pali, Chitta. There’s a wisdom that flows through the whole book, cover to cover. Of course practical aspects of organizing life are invaluable, but there’s a spirit of ephemeral order and space that pervades her every tale and story. How she’s been able to cut through the discrimination and discouragement handed her, and remain joyful and bright is well beyond comprehension. In the planning of home, garden or family, the intention is consciousness, fortitude and determination. As a retired surgeon, I’ve spent years of regret, longing for the life I had. Now, I’m embracing the beauty around me, the lives intersecting with me and the intention to choose a deliberate sense of order. Collected items of no use take up too much space in my home and I can’t afford their rent. Kissing the memories goodbye and embracing the moment of here and now has ordered my hours, my interactions and my faith. There is no waste in this book of hers, no time or space for disorder as, again, their price is too high to justify. If I could, one day, meet Marie, I would hold that moment with the highest of honor. In her book, she is hired to daily instruct me to proceed with honor and humility. No lessons wasted and no task unappreciated!!! Thank you, Marie!!!