Since the arrival of Europeans on its shores in the 16th century, Japan has awakened in the West a mixture of fascination, idealization, and bewilderment. We are captivated by its contrasts, we idealize its philosophy and traditions, and we are scandalized by the darker aspects of modern Japan. But to what extent do these portrayals reflect the daily lives of the Japanese?
In her essay, Japanese Society: Past, Present, and New Horizons (Satori, 2025), Estel·la Ramírez invites us to go beyond stereotypes to understand what contemporary Japanese society is really like and analyzes the historical and cultural changes that have shaped the country.
The book addresses key areas such as family, work, education, and collective identity. It also focuses on issues such as the demographic crisis, feminist and LGBTQ+ struggles, minorities, and mental health.
The conversation, organized by Casa Asia in collaboration with Satori Ediciones, will take place on Thursday, June 11, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the Casa Asia-Madrid Center (Calle Mayor, 69, Madrid). Admission is free with prior registration.
Program:
Welcome Remarks:
Elvira Bodi, Programming Coordinator, Casa Asia-Madrid Center
Participants:
Estel·la Ramírez, author of the book
Leticia Rodríguez, Associate Editor, Satori Ediciones
Estel·la Ramírez is a researcher, writer, and professor of Japanology. She holds a degree in History and a Master’s degree in East Asian Studies, graduating with honors. She has furthered her studies through online programs at universities such as the University of Tokyo, Keio University, Waseda University, and Harvard University, and has also spent time in Japan. She has collaborated with international institutions focused on the Asian continent. As a result, she currently works in educational centers, as well as at events and venues dedicated to promoting Japanese history, society, and culture.
Leticia Rodríguez holds a degree in Hispanic Philology. While pursuing a master’s degree in comparative literature in Paris, she shifted her academic aspirations to the world of books and has since trained and worked as a proofreader and editor. Today, she is part of the small but enthusiastic Satori Ediciones family as an associate editor.
