The Chrysanthemum and the Sword

"One of the best books ever about Japanese society…[A] thoughtful, nuanced study of the Japanese character." —U.S. News & World Report

"A classic of Japanese cultural studies…debunks the stereotype of the Japanese as hopelessly rigid and incapable of change." —The New York Times

First published in 1946, The Chrysanthemum and the Sword is renowned for its insights into Japanese culture—examining social structure, family roles, self-discipline, and other enduring values—and has shaped decades of cross-cultural discourse by showing how these elements have persisted amid sweeping modernization.

This masterpiece remains unsurpassed in its keen observations about Japanese culture. By shedding light on the core values that make the Japanese unique, it reveals a great deal about culture in general and provides a lens through which to view ourselves.

This new edition has been completely redesigned for greater readability and features a new foreword by Lois Banner, a pioneer in the field of women's studies.