Translation
A Complete
English Man’yōshū
The first complete English translation of Japan’s oldest poetry anthology, with pilgrimages to its poem monuments across the land.
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A cultural project led by Peter MacMillan
True Japan Initiative
The heart of Japan, between word and landscape. A thousand years of beauty, into the next thousand.
A general incorporated association sharing the essence of Japanese culture with the world.
Our Mission
A thousand years of beauty, into the next thousand.
The Founder
A cultural project led by the poet and translator Peter MacMillan
It has been a quarter of a century since I first encountered Japan. Translating its poetry and walking its shrines and temples, I came to see that the essence of Japan lives in the quiet space between words, between people and things. True Japan Initiative is a cultural project devoted to carrying that quiet heart into the future.
Our Work
Three pillars carrying Japan’s beauty to the world.
A Complete
Karuta
WHACK A WAKA
English Karuta
The world’s first English edition of the Hyakunin Isshu karuta, with tournaments at home and abroad that open waka to every generation.
Explore →Publishing
Books on
Japanese Culture
Books on the spirit and aesthetics of Japan, written for everyone to enjoy — and shared further through talks, events and the media.
Explore →Film
Meet the heart of Japan, on film.
Watch the film series →
News
News
- 2026.06.01 News Our official website is now live →
- 2025.09.22 News True Japan Initiative was established →
Support Our Work
To carry a thousand years of words into the next thousand.
The translation of the Man’yōshū, international karuta tournaments, publishing and film — every part of our work is sustained by the understanding and support of many.