Bushido: The Spirit of the Samurai (Shambhala Library)

There are eight virtues of Bushido, the code of the samurai: justice, courage, benevolence, politeness, sincerity, honor, loyalty, and self-control. These virtues comprise the essence of Japanese cultural beliefs, which are still present today.

Inazo Nitobe, one of Japan's most respected scholars, explores the ethical code of the samurai and contextualizes it within Japan's traditions of Buddhism, Shintoism, and Confucianism. He then compares and contrasts Eastern values with those present in Western societies. Written in English and first published in 1905, this classic introduction to Japan's samurai culture has been a best-seller for decades. Focus on Asian Studies says it is "a must for an understanding of the soul of Japan."

Inazo Nitobe (1862–1933) was born in Japan and began studying English when he was nine years old. He attended colleges in Japan, the United States, and in Germany—where he earned five doctorate degrees. Nitobe was an educator, a cultural ambassador, and one of the best-known Japanese writers of his time.