Many conventions in Japanese animation and comics come from Japanese legends, stories and histories. Often, complete episodes of Japanese history are retold, or sometimes just alluded to with a subtle reference.
Find out about Japanese art history. Learn about the great Japanese painters, printmakers and calligraphers. Read their stories and history. Children's books are a great way to learn the basics, and may whet your appetite for more.
The aesthetics of modern Japan also influence the cartoonist and animator. Check out travel books and movies set in Japan. Look out for Japanese movies with subtitles. Observe the landscape, especially the urban landscape, how people dress, and the technology they use. If you are serious about your Manga and Anime, its more than about just the lines on the page. Its about the world they represent.
