Japan in Azerbaijani Memoirs and Travelogues

Abstract

This study examines the formation and development of Japan's image in Azerbaijani memoirs and travelogues. Its primary objective is to investigate how the social, political, historical, cultural, and spiritual dimensions of Japan are represented in Azerbaijani memoirs and travelogues, while also assessing the contribution of these texts to the development of Azerbaijani–Japanese cultural relations. The theoretical framework draws upon scholarly approaches to the documentary-literary characteristics of memoirs and travelogues, as well as the concepts of intercultural dialogue and cultural memory. The empirical corpus consists of Hasan Seyidbeyli's Fifteen Days in Japan, Bakir Nabiyev's What I Saw in Japan, Shahin Fazil's A Travelogue of Japan, and Ganira Pashayeva's Step by Step: Japan. The research employs comparative, historical-comparative, textual, and hermeneutic methods of analysis. The findings demonstrate that Azerbaijani authors portray Japan not merely as a geographical entity but as a distinctive civilisational model characterised by advanced technological development, a strong national and cultural identity, social discipline, historical consciousness, and humanistic values. Across works produced in different historical periods, particular emphasis is placed on the value accorded to the individual, work ethic, norms of social conduct, the harmonious coexistence of tradition and modernity, and the collective memory shaped by the tragedies of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. The study concludes that these memoirs and travelogues have significantly shaped Azerbaijani perceptions of Japan while fostering intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding between the two nations. The findings may serve as a valuable resource for future research on Azerbaijani–Japanese literary and cultural relations, comparative literary studies, and the memoir and travel writing genres.