If we travel around Japan, we'll encounter an interesting phenomenon. In the corners of noisy stations, on crowded trains, or in city parks during springtime, we often see Japanese people reading. Not because they're supposed to be doing something, nor to show off their intellectual prowess, but because reading has become part of their very life. Reading isn't an exclusive activity, but rather a collective culture woven into the fabric of everyday life. Here we see not only a technologically advanced nation, but also one deeply rooted in a literate civilization.
Why do Japanese people love reading? This question can be answered in many ways, but fundamentally, it's because they value knowledge as much as they value time and existence. Reading isn't just a mental activity, but an integral part of social ethics and character. In the silence and stillness of reading, this nation builds its dignity.
Literate Nation Since the 19th Century
History records that Japan achieved a very high literacy rate during the Meiji Restoration (1868–1912). By the early 20th century, Japan had one of the highest literacy rates in the world. Even long before that, during the Edo period (1603–1868), there were already public schools called terakoya, where the children of farmers and merchants learned to read, write, and count. From this, we know that the Japanese reading tradition was not born out of Western modernization, but rather grew out of a deep cultural awareness.
Technological advances, an equitable national education system, and widespread access to books and media have strengthened this culture of literacy. However, the most important factor remains: a collective awareness that reading is a way to strengthen character and shape society.
The Main Goal is to Build Awareness and Harmony
The Japanese tradition of reading isn't solely about academic achievement or social prestige. Behind this passion lies a life philosophy: a conscious commitment to continuous learning and self-improvement. Books aren't just sources of information, but also mirrors for understanding oneself and the world.
One of the noble values inherent in Japanese culture is the concept of kaizen, the spirit of continuous improvement. Reading is a form of spiritual and intellectual kaizen. In Japan, children are introduced to books from an early age, and parents often read bedtime stories as a time to foster moral development and emotional bonding.
Furthermore, reading also serves as a tool for maintaining social harmony. In cultures that value order and politeness, reading in public is seen as a sign of awareness of not disturbing others. In the silence of reading, people find a peaceful, private space amidst the crowd.
Reflection for This Nation
Then we ask in the silence of conscience:
Have we made reading a way of life?
In this country, books are still considered a luxury. Reading hasn't become a part of the culture; it's still limited to school or work requirements. Libraries exist, but they're empty. Books are published, but they're mostly read by a limited circle.
Yet, within every page of a book lies the light of civilization. A nation with little interest in reading is easily swayed by opinion, propaganda, and hoaxes. A nation that is reluctant to read is easily divided, deprived of the wisdom that should be born from deep understanding.
We often complain about unwise leaders, a society that is easily provoked, and a young generation that has lost its way. But we rarely ask,
"Have we instilled a love of reading from an early age?"
Reading not only opens a window to the world, but also a window to the heart. It trains us to suspend judgment, hone empathy, and broaden our horizons. Behind the pages of the books the Japanese read daily, lies a nation characterized by patience, perseverance, and consideration. Perhaps that's what we should delve deeper into: not just how they read, but why reading breathes life into their nation's soul.
Let's Be a Nation of Readers
Japan not only builds factories and robots, but also builds awareness of its people through books.
Amidst the onslaught of digital visuals and instant entertainment, they maintain the tradition of reading because they know that civilization is not built by speed, but by depth.
If you want this nation to rise, start with one simple thing: instill a love of reading. Teach children that books are not a burden, but a companion on a journey.
Read fairy tales not only to lull children to sleep, but to ignite their imagination.
Create a reading space that's enjoyable, not intimidating. And more importantly, be a living example of an adult who reads not because they have to, but because they want to.
Because only a nation that reads can be truly free. And only a soul that loves knowledge can be a light for its nation and its generations.
By Djodjok Soepardjo (Arif Billah)
