Review – Tokyo Tempos by Michael Pronko

As the fourth installment in Michael Pronko’s Tokyo Moments Series, Tokyo Tempos offers a unique perspective on living in this incredible city. Panko, a Kansas-born writer who has lived in Japan for over twenty years, provides the reader with his experiences immersing himself in Japanese culture and the rhythm of city life. The essays cover topics such as business cards, photography, adjusting to the seasons, and subway commutes. But these aren’t dry takes on Japanese life and customs, Pronko instead takes a deeper dive to explain the reasons behind their customs and traditions. He also discusses how he sees things with a foreigner’s eyes, how he had to learn to adapt to his environment, and his opinions on the evolution of the culture. 

Pronko’s love for Japan, its culture, and its people is evident in these essays. In the first essay in this collection, “Train Time”, he discusses the daily commute by train. Despite the crowded environment, he takes the time to watch his fellow passengers and thinks about their lives. As he describes it, the train is, “a bookstore filled with stories being lived.” He also writes endearingly about the advice he receives from friends, neighbors, and strangers. I think it helps that Pronko studied philosophy in college because it allows the reader to find deeper meaning in the essays. As he explains it, “I approach Tokyo with a philosophical attitude.”

That’s what makes this book so fascinating. These aren’t just snippets of Tokyo and the usual touristy accounts of the big attractions. Pronko takes a deeper look at what makes Tokyo hum, what gives it the appeal that draws thousands of visitors every year, and why he now calls it home. These essays provide the reader with a street-level view of the people who make the city what it is, and also, serve as an intellectual guide to those who would like to see Tokyo from another point of view.

I feel Tokyo Tempos has a broad appeal. Pronko’s narration is friendly and conversational, even though he can wax philosophical about the topics he loves. Not that this is a bad thing. I found myself visualizing his rides on the trains, his walks in his neighborhood, and his somewhat protracted view of Mount Fuji from his window. This is a book for people who are either fascinated by Japan or who may be interested in visiting the country. If nothing else, you’ll finish reading it with a distinct appreciation for the people and the culture.

This review was originally posted at Reader Views. For more book reviews and recommendations, check out my Reading List page.

RB