Japanese Tradition

Monsters, spirits, fantastic beings, and supernatural creatures haunt the folklore and popular culture of Japan. Broadly labeled yōkai, they appear in many forms, from tengu mountain goblins and kappa water sprites, to shape-shifting kitsune foxes and long-tongued ceiling-lickers. Popular today in anime, manga, film, and video games, many yōkai originated in local legends, folktales, and regional ghost stories. The Book of Yōkai invites listeners to examine how people create, transmit, and collect folklore, and how they make sense of the mysteries in the world around them.

The goals of the budo - the martial arts and ways of Japan - lie in refining the body and spirit. These goals are not always the obvious ones - and are learned only through the guidance and direction of great teachers. The techniques, methods, and rituals of the sensei can serve as guides to a well-lived life - and provide invaluable lessons for today's martial artists.

Wondering how to make a meaningful change in your life? Tired of feeling lost and directionless? Discover the Japanese secrets of Ikigai, Kaizen, and Hansei that have transformed millions of lives around the globe! Immerse yourself in the profound depths of Ikigai, Kaizen, and Hansei to unearth a life brimming with purpose, constant growth, and reflective wisdom. Inside this guide, you’ll uncover the ancient Japanese secrets of Ikigai, Kaizen, and Hansei—principles that have inspired millions worldwide. These aren't just concepts, they're practical tools for reshaping your life from the...

Step into the tranquil and profound world of Shinto with "Shinto: A Beginner's Guide." This book is your gateway to exploring the ancient spirituality that lies at the heart of Japan's cultural and natural beauty. Discover the Essence of Shinto: Unveil the mysteries of Shinto, where every mountain, river, and tree is imbued with the sacred presence of kami. Learn how these spirits influence and guide the daily lives of those who honor them. This guide makes the complex philosophy of Shinto accessible and engaging, allowing you to integrate its wisdom into your own life. Immerse in Cultural ...

Listeners of this book will gain a clear understanding of what makes the Japanese, and their society, tick.

For nearly seven centuries, Japan was ruled not by its emperors but by the iron will of its shoguns. From the clash of clans in the Genpei War to the long peace of Tokugawa Edo, from the flowering of Noh and tea ceremony to the thunder of Commodore Perry’s black ships, the shogunate shaped the soul of Japan. In Samurai and Shoguns: A History of Feudal Japan, historian James Takeda brings this sweeping saga vividly to life. Written in accessible, story-driven prose, this book traces the rise of the samurai warrior class, the creation of Japan’s first military governments, the chaos of ...

Dive into the mystical world of ancient Japan and uncover its incredible deities, mythical creatures, and heroic tales, even if you're new to folklore! Are you fascinated by Japan's rich culture and history?Discover captivating tales of Shinto gods, Yōkai, and legendary heroes that shape Japan's cultural heritage.

Discover fascinating ancient Japanese fairy tales as well as the folk tales of the Ainu/Aino. The first book in this collection, titled Japanese Fairy Tales, was written by Iwaya Sazanami and translated by Yei Theodora Ozaki, a 20th-century translator of Japanese short stories and fairy tales. The second book in this collection is a rare one that is not usually available in audio format: Aino Folk-Tales by Basil Chamberlain, one of the most prominent British Japanologists active in Japan during the latter half of the 19th century.

If the Way of the warrior is the soul of Japan, their magnificent swords were the tools utilized to form the nation and forge their spirit. You’ll find an abundance of information in this special two-volume ebook anthology in support of this thesis. Kimberly Taylor wrote four chapters, the first being an interview with 7th-dan Matsuo Haruna. Haruna offers great advice for practitioners based on his first-hand experience. Taylor’s two highly researched chapters give overviews of two major iaido schools. Excellent photos and descriptions of katas accompany the text. Taylor’s finale is a...

An innovative new take on the travel guide, Rice, Noodle, Fish decodes Japan's extraordinary food culture through a mix of in-depth narrative and insider advice. In this 5,000-mile journey through the noodle shops, tempura temples, and teahouses of Japan, Matt Goulding, cocreator of the enormously popular Eat This, Not That! book series, navigates the intersection between food, history, and culture, creating one of the most ambitious and complete books ever written about Japanese culinary culture from the Western perspective.

Uncover Japan's Secrets in One Epic Volume From the mysterious Jōmon people to the heights of its technological prowess, Japan’s story is a 10,000-year saga of ruthless warriors, spiritual emperors, and revolutionary rebirth. Beneath the history books lie the timeless legends: the divine creation myths, the harrowing ghost stories, and the tales of samurai honor that define the nation's soul. Two manuscripts in one book: History of Japan: An Enthralling Journey Through Ancient Japanese Empires, the Shogunate Era, Cultural Renaissance, and Modern Period Japanese Folktales and Legends: An ...

Ash shook off the images swarming his head and tried to focus on her again; it wasn’t hard. She was so beautiful, those plump lips naturally lined by a darker stain of pink as they blossomed into a cherry in the center, those wide eyes so rich and opaque he could stare into them for hours and never separate pupil from iris. The lashes kissing the delicate smattering of freckles on her mahogany cheek—“I can’t begin to tell you how much your friendship means to me,” Ash said, still drinking in her face. She was so close. It would take nothing to just come a little closer, just there...

Discover the Ancient Wisdom of Shinto. For those who are seeking a deeper connection with nature, a stronger sense of community, and a more balanced approach to life? Look no further than Shinto - A Primer – a simple guide to one of the world's most fascinating spiritual traditions. Imagine walking through a forest, feeling the energy of ancient trees, the rustling wind and crystal-clear streams. Picture yourself participating in vibrant festivals that bring entire communities together in joyous celebration. See a life where every day begins with a moment of heartfelt gratitude for the ...

Unlock the Secrets of Shingon Buddhism with This Essential Guide Are you ready to embark on a journey of spiritual discovery and transformation? "Shingon Buddhism: A Beginner's Guide" offers you a captivating introduction to one of Buddhism's most profound and mystical traditions. This book is not just an exploration; it's an invitation to delve into the rich tapestry of esoteric teachings, rituals, and art that define Shingon Buddhism. Discover the Origins: Dive deep into the fascinating history of Shingon Buddhism. Learn about Kūkai, the legendary monk who founded this tradition, and ...

Enter a land of gods, samurai, and spirits—where ancient stories still echo today. Japanese Legends isn’t just another dry history book—it reveals how sacred myths still shape Japan’s festivals, rituals, and national identity. Whether you're drawn to samurai history, yokai tales, or the traditions of shrines and emperors, this book offers a fresh, accessible way to explore the myths and legends that built Japan.

With the invasion of Dara complete, and the Wall of Storms breached, the world has opened to new possibilities for the gods and peoples of both empires as the sweeping saga of the award-winning Dandelion Dynasty continues in this third book of the “magnificent fantasy epic” (NPR). Princess...

We have all heard stories of demigods and their epic battles or ultimate demise. But which parts are true and what is fabricated? If you want to discover the superhumans from Greek, Norse, Celtic, African, Egyptian, Japanese, and Hindu mythology, then this is the book you need.

Step into the transformative world of Zen with a guide that delivers twice the wisdom in one compelling volume. Zen Essentials: Exploring Rinzai and Soto Traditions combines two powerful books—Rinzai Zen for Beginners and Soto Zen for Beginners—to offer an unparalleled journey into mindfulness, simplicity, and the art of living well. Discover how the bold energy of Rinzai Zen and the serene flow of Soto Zen can transform your life: Sharpen Your Mind with Rinzai Zen: Experience the thrill of koans—enigmatic questions designed to ignite insight and clarity. Rinzai Zen challenges you to ...

If the Way of the warrior is the soul of Japan, their magnificent swords were the tools utilized to form the nation and forge their spirit. You’ll find an abundance of information in this special two-part digital anthology in support of this thesis. Kimberly Taylor wrote four chapters, the first being an interview with 7th dan Matsuo Haruna. Haruna offers great advice for practitioners based on his firsthand experience. Taylor’s two highly researched chapters give overviews of two major iaido schools. Excellent photos and descriptions of katas accompany the text. Taylor’s finale is a ...

調和 Chōwa: Japan's Dance with Tradition and Innovation - Ancient Wisdom for Our Technological Future 🏮 Discover the Secret Balance That Powers the World's Most Fascinating Culture 🤖 What if the answer to our modern dilemma—how to embrace the future without losing our soul—has existed for centuries in Japan? In a Tokyo kindergarten, children bow to a robot before programming it. At Japan's most sacred shrine, priests completely rebuild the entire structure every twenty years—a tradition unchanged since 690 CE. A family sweet shop founded before Columbus discovered America ...