Sources of Japanese Tradition (Vol. 1 & 2)

A two-volume scholarly anthology presenting translated primary texts that trace the development of Japanese intellectual, religious, and cultural traditions across many centuries. Widely used in university courses, the set brings together important historical writings with editorial introductions that provide historical context and interpretation.

Volume 1 focuses on the formative periods of Japanese civilization, presenting selections from early sources including Shinto traditions, Buddhist writings, classical literature, historical chronicles, and early political documents. These texts illustrate the foundations of Japanese religious life, political organization, and cultural identity from ancient times through the medieval era.

Volume 2 continues the collection with writings from the early modern and modern periods, highlighting the intellectual and cultural transformations that occurred from the Tokugawa period through the modern era. The selections include philosophical writings, political thought, and literary works that reflect Japan’s changing social and cultural landscape.

Together, the two volumes provide a broad documentary survey of Japanese civilization through key historical texts presented in English translation, making the set an important reference for the study of Japanese history, religion, and philosophy.