Released 11/8/05
Miami, Florida –  

1. Japan’s Foreign Minister’s Commendation will be awarded to Author William Scott Wilson of Miami.  This award is conferred upon individuals or groups that have rendered especially distinguished service in strengthening the relationship between Japan and other countries.  Through his literary works and translations, Mr. Wilson has contributed greatly to increased cultural understanding and friendship between the US and Japan.  On November 15, Consul General Masakazu Toshikage, Consulate General of Japan in Miami, will hold a ceremony and presentation in his honor.  

2. Mr. Wilson is a premier author and translator of samurai literature.  He completed his first translation, Hagakure, while living in a farmhouse in Japan.  This translation was later used in the 1999 film Ghost Dog by Jim Jarmusch.  His first original work, The Lone Samurai: The Life of Miyamoto Musashi, was published in 2004.  He has done extensive research on Japanese philosophy and Bushido, the way of the samurai.  He has lectured at The Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach and will hold a presentation at the Miami Book Fair International on November 19.  Mr. Wilson grew up in Fort Lauderdale and currently resides in Miami. 

3. Mr. Wilson’s presentation at Miami Book Fair International is in conjunction with Kagoshima, Japan Days 2005, a celebration of Miami and Kagoshima’s sister-city relationship.  A variety of events such as taiko drum and koto performances and tea ceremony demonstrations will be held in the Kagoshima - Japan Pavilion at Miami Dade College Wolfson Campus from Friday, November 18 through Sunday, November 20.  Mr. Wilson’s lecture will be held at 12 noon on Saturday in Building 3, Room #3315.  For more information on Kagoshima, Japan Days’ events, call the Consulate General of Japan at #(305)530-9090.  Admission to the book fair on Friday is free, Saturday and Sunday is $5 for adults, children 18 and under, free.