China

The Good Earth by Pearl S. Buck. (Classic)

This book was required high school reading in the 1960s and a key book for America's women's movement.

Homesick: My Own Story by Jean Fritz. 
A coming-of-age story about a young girl born and raised in China until the age of 12.

Japan

The Cat Who Went to Heaven by Elizabeth Coatsworth. (Newbery Medal winner)

A special cat visits a poor Japanese artist, who paints a great picture with all sorts of animals blessed by Buddha. He also paints in his cat and is rewarded with a miracle.