Lafcadio Hearn 
Japan (Barnes & Noble Digital Library) 
An Attempt at Interpretation

Published posthumously in 1904, this masterful volume focuses on religion, from its early expression as ancestor worship, through more sophisticated native evolutions and foreign admixtures, as the prime shaper of Japanese culture.  The most influential single account of Japan written by a Westerner up until that time, it still resonates with readers and faithfully presents aspects of Japan.   

About the author

Patrick Lafcadio Hearn (1850-1904), also known as Koizumi Yakumo, was born in Greece, raised in Ireland, spent years in America, and finally became a citizen of Japan.  A journalist and translator, he played a major role in introducing Japanese culture to the West.  His translations of Japanese fairy tales and ghost stories were especially influential.