Non-fiction:
* Lost Japan: The Rediscovery of a Vanished World (1995): An exploration of Japan's rural areas, highlighting their unique culture, traditions, and endangered natural beauty.
* Dogs and Demons: The New Japan (2001): A sequel to Lost Japan, this book examines the rapid modernization and social changes transforming Japan in the latter half of the 20th century.
* Ghosts of the Tsugaru Strait: A Maritime History of Japan (2006): A detailed account of the history and culture of the Tsugaru Strait, focusing on its role in Japan's development and maritime traditions.
* The Last Samurai: The Life and Battles of Saigo Takamori (2009): A biography of Saigo Takamori, a legendary samurai leader who fought against the modernization of Japan in the 19th century.
* Okinawa: The History and Culture of an Island People (2012): A comprehensive examination of the history and culture of Okinawa, highlighting its unique traditions and its turbulent relationship with mainland Japan.
* The Other Side of Japan: A Journey to the Forgotten Islands (2019): A journey through the remote and forgotten islands of Japan, showcasing their unique landscapes and disappearing cultures.
Fiction:
* The Village of the Tiger (2011): A novel set in a remote village in Japan, exploring themes of tradition, change, and the power of nature.
* The Forest of Lost Souls (2015): A novel set in the forests of Japan, exploring themes of environmental destruction, spiritual connection, and the resilience of nature.
These books have established Alex Kerr as a leading authority on Japan, praised for his engaging writing style, deep research, and passionate advocacy for preserving Japanese culture and natural heritage.