Although a number of bibliographies have been published, most of them tend toward a certain specialization or are highly selective. Koopmans-de Bruijn's bibliography, on the other hand, provides a general overview of literature relating to Japan and covers a broad range of subject matter: from art, feminism, and linguistics, to corporate culture, history, and medicine. She includes books published since 1980 that are related to the geographical area of Japan and to Japanese culture within that area. The bibliography places emphasis on current literature and topics and informs about the enormous changes that have occurred in Japan in recent years.

Entries are arranged alphabetically by subject. The Area Bibliography of Japan is useful as a starting point for undergraduate students and the general public, or as a quick reference to the literature for advanced scholars and graduate students.