The book and the film are a close match and both were equaly enjoyable.Knowing something of the modern day culture of Japan there are many attitudes still held sacred and the origin of these I believe to have been faithfully portrayed in this mini series. I have also seen the shortened version made for the movies if I had not seen the mini series or read the book first I would not have understood what the author was trying to convey, therefore, mini series seem to be the answer in faithfully, within reason of portraying the authors work. Other enjoyable mini series that have come to life for me are Centennial and Chesapeak again good productions.
