Haruki Murakami was honored in New York City last week for his long career in literature and cultural exchange. The Japanese author received the Lifetime of Excellence in Fiction Award from the Center for Fiction in Manhattan. Two days later, the Japan Society presented its annual prize during a public program called “Murakami Mixtape.” The event recognized Murakami’s influence as a novelist and his role in bringing Japanese literature to international readers.

The celebration featured readings, live jazz music, and discussions led by writers, translators, and musicians. Organizers designed the program to show Murakami’s connection to music, especially jazz, which has appeared throughout his novels. The event also included recognition of lesser-known works, giving audiences a broader view of his writing career. Cultural experts said the program created strong engagement by combining education and entertainment. Musicians performed while passages were read aloud, creating a shared experience for the audience. Observers noted the contribution of translators, who helped present Japanese texts to English-speaking listeners. The evening ended with reflections on how Murakami’s work has influenced younger writers and increased awareness of modern Japanese culture abroad. The events showed how literature can connect cultures and remain relevant across generations.