Shogun

In the year 1600, European and Japanese cultures clash in James Clavell's epic novel Shogun.

European explorers and colonizers are doing their thing around the world: trying to extract riches, bringing religion, and influencing political outcomes with superior technology (guns). This is the setting under which the novel's characters are trying to survive and thrive.

The book is very long, but I'd say worth it. I learned a ton about Japanese culture, at least as it's perceived by the author. It has even changed the way I speak to people. Enjoy!