Inazo Nitobe (1862-1933) was a prolific writer and respected Japanese statesman born into a warrior family at the end of the 750-year Samurai period. Desiring to serve as a bridge between his native Japan and the Western world Nitobe was educated in English and greatly influenced by his Western instructors. Through his many writings, particularly Bushido which became an international sensation, he became famous in the West and today is widely regarded as the leading authority on all things Japanese. Alexander Bennett is a professor in Japanese history, martial arts and Budo theory at Kansai University. He cofounded and publishes Kendo World, the first English-language journal dedicated to Kendo. He holds black belts in several martial arts Kendo Kyoshi 7-dan, Iaido 5-dan and Naginata 5-dan. His published works include Japan: The Ultimate Samurai Guide, Hagakure: The Secret Wisdom of the Samurai and The Complete Musashi: The Book of Five Rings and Other Works.
A 'must' for an understanding of the soul of Japan. --Focus on Asian Studies Bennett's careful research ensures modern readers can fully appreciate a still-fascinating text on the values of the samurai, and consider how they might still apply to the present day. --Publishers Weekly In this 192-page book, noted Japanese scholar Inazo Nitobe examines the seven precepts of bushido and describes the role they played in the life of the samurai warrior. --Black Belt magazine Dr. Bennett possesses a profound knowledge of, and deep insight into, the world of Japanese bushido. This expertise has been enhanced by his extensive practical experience of the traditional martial arts of Japan, and his proficiency in this domain is highly acclaimed. --Tetsuo Yamaori, former Director of the International Research Center for Japanese Studies