The Chrysanthemum and the Sword: Patterns of Japanese Culture

The classic study of Japan and Japanese culture—now reissued with a new foreword by Emiko Ohnuki-Tierney!

THE CHRYSANTHEMUM AND THE SWORD is the classic work that has defined our understanding of Japanese culture- of why it is seemingly self-contradictory, and how and why it differs from our own. The book focuses on the heart of Japanese social structure-hierarchy, marriage and family, filial piety, self-discipline and other core values—explaining the fact that while much has changed, much also remains the same.

Although Japan has changed drastically over the years, this masterpiece remains unsurpassed in its keen observations about Japanese culture. By shedding light on the set of core values that make the Japanese way of life unique, it reveals a great deal about culture in general and provides a lens through which to view ourselves.