What are the characteristics of feudal Japan fiction books?

There are quite a few feudal Japan fiction books. 'Blade of the Samurai' is a book that focuses on the life of a samurai. It shows their code of honor, their training, and the battles they fought. 'The Crane Wife' by Patrick Ness is also set in a feudal - like Japan. It's a beautifully written story that combines elements of Japanese folklore with a unique fictional narrative.

They often have a strong focus on historical settings. For example, the architecture, clothing, and social hierarchies of feudal Japan are usually depicted accurately. The characters may be samurais, geishas, or lords.

Japanese fiction often has a unique sense of melancholy. For example, in many of Murakami's works, there is a feeling of loneliness and longing. Also, they are good at depicting complex human relationships.

Many Japanese fiction books are rich in symbolism. Take 'The Wind - Up Bird Chronicle' by Murakami again. The well at the end of the alley could symbolize the mystery and the unknown in the characters' lives, and the whole story is filled with such symbolic elements which add depth to the narrative.

Another great one is 'The Tale of Genji'. Although it was written in the Heian period which was still in a feudal - like social structure. It gives a detailed look into the court life, relationships, and cultural aspects of that era in Japan. It's a very important piece of Japanese literature that has influenced many other works related to feudal Japan.

These stories can show the strict social hierarchy. For example, if a story involves a relationship between different classes, it shows how difficult it was to cross those boundaries. It also reflects on the role of gender. Women in feudal Japan had specific roles, and in erotic stories, it can show how they were expected to behave in relationships, whether it was in marriage or in affairs.

Feudal science fiction often features a power structure based on land or resources like in feudal systems. The stories may show how technology is used to maintain the power of the ruling class. There could be a lot of political intrigue as different factions vie for control of the newfangled scientific advancements. It also might explore how traditional feudal values interact with the modern ideas brought by science.

For beginners, 'Kitchen' by Banana Yoshimoto is a great choice. It has a simple yet engaging narrative that deals with themes of grief and finding comfort. The writing style is accessible and easy to follow.

One possible plot could be Naruto being born into a samurai family in feudal Japan. He discovers he has strange powers that are not in line with the traditional samurai skills. He then has to hide his powers while also trying to use them to protect his village from a mysterious threat that is slowly emerging, like a group of rogue ninjas from a neighboring land.

It might have samurai, traditional Japanese architecture, and scenes of daily life in that era. Maybe also some depictions of the feudal hierarchy and battles.