There’s something special about the calm, thoughtful wisdom that runs through Japanese culture. No wonder so many people feel drawn to Japanese philosophy.
And the wonderful thing is that so many Japanese concepts are easy to apply to everyday life, even in the west.
You don’t have to become a monk or give away all your belongings to benefit from Japanese wisdom! It’s all about finding joy in the small things, slowing down, and living with intention.
These 9 Japanese philosophy books for beginners explore that beautifully. From Zen lessons on mindfulness to ideas like wabi sabi and ikigai, they show how simple habits and small shifts in perspective can completely change the way you see your life.
If you’ve ever felt drawn to learn more about the peaceful, balanced side of Japanese culture, you’ll love these books. Take a look and let me know if you have a favourite!
Zen by Shunmyo Masano
Shunmyo Masuno is a Buddhist priest and a million-copy bestselling author in Japan! This book is the perfect introduction to Zen for those who want to add a little Japanese philosophy to their daily life, but don’t know where to start.
The book is broken down into 100 bite-sized clear, everyday lessons for bringing order and calm to modern life, from simple breathing exercises to tips on tidying your home to reduce stress .
Follow one lesson a day for 100 days, and you’ll soon see you don’t have to be a Japanese monk to practise Zen!
Wabi Sabi: The Wisdom in Imperfection by Nobou Suzuki
Wabi sabi is the Japanese concept that there is beauty in imperfection. Nothing is perfect, and nothing is permanent – and by embracing this, we can better appreciate the beauty in everyday life.
This beautiful book examines the concept of wabi sabi in Japanese philosophy, art, and as a way of life. It contains some simple rituals and challenges so that you can start to apply wabi sabi to your own life right away.
The Little Book of Ikigai by Ken Mogi
The Japanese concept of ikigai means ‘purpose in life’, or the thing that gives your life meaning.
This little book, by Japanese neuroscientist and author Ken Mogi, is a concise and insightful guide to finding your purpose.
The book can help you understand more about Japanese philosophy and mindset, as well as making you think deeply about your own life and motivations.
The Courage to Be Disliked by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumitake Koga
A bestselling self-help book that has gone viral for its life-changing insights.
Framed as a dialogue between a philosopher and a young man, the book shows you how to free yourself from past traumas and societal expectations to find personal happiness. It’s a great book about personal accountability and how to become the person you want to be.
Dokkodo: The Way for Those Who Walk Alone by Miyamoto Musashi
From modern bestsellers to ancient wisdom! This incredible book was penned by a legendary samurai almost 400 years ago. It presents a unique insight into the life and philosophy of the samurai.
This short but valuable book consists of twenty-one precepts that sum up samurai beliefs and principles. It’s paired with a short biography of Musashi and commentary on each of the precepts, providing essential context for the modern reader to relate this ancient philosophy.
Walking in the Woods by Professor Yoshifumi Miyazaki
Shinrin-yoku literally translates as ‘forest bathing’. It’s a Japanese concept of walking in the woods for its physical and mental health benefits.
Based on a combination of ancient wisdom and modern scientific research, this book explains why this practice is so effective – and how to implement it yourself.
Don’t have a forest on your doorstep? Professor Miyazaki explains practical ways to apply the concept, from visiting urban parks to bringing nature indoors with houseplants and natural wood decor.
This short read, complete with beautiful photographs, will make you think about your connection with nature.
The Book of Tea by Okakura Kakuzo
This short book, first published in 1906, is considered a classic work about Japanese aesthetics.
Although the Japanese tea ceremony is the central theme, the book goes well beyond this to consider Zen Buddhism, Taoism, flower arranging, aesthetics, art and more.
A perfect read for anyone interested in tea, Zen or Japanese culture.
Zen Mind, Beginner’s Mind by Shunryu Suzuki
This book offers practical advice on Zen philosophy, meditation and practice, from the correct posture for zazen (seated meditation) to understanding key Buddhist concepts.
It’s often described as the best beginner’s guide to Zen philosophy. Recommended if you want to go beyond the popular ‘self help’ style books and start an authentic mediation practice.
In Praise of Shadows by Junichiro Tanizaki
This classic essay by one of Japan’s most celebrated authors explores ideas of beauty and imperfection in everyday life.
Writing at a time when Western influence and electric lighting was starting to spread in Japan, Tanizaki reflects on the charm of shadows, natural light and organic materials. The essay explains how traditional Japanese aesthetics celebrate quiet over brightness and restraint over excess.
A thoughtful read for anyone who loved Wabi Sabi or The Book of Tea, and wants to understand how Japan’s appreciation for natural imperfection shapes its philosophy and design.
Have you read any Japanese philosophy books?
I hope these Japanese book recommendations bring you a little peace, a few new habits and perhaps a different perspective on life.
Any of these would make a lovely addition to your TBR pile, or a thoughtful gift for someone who loves Japanese culture.
Have you read any of these books on Japanese philosophy? What did I miss? Share your recommendations below!
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Rebecca is the founder of Team Japanese. She spent two years teaching English in Ehime, Japan. Now back in the UK, she spends her time blogging, self-studying Japanese and wrangling a very genki toddler.