One of the earliest and most significant accounts of Japanese history for Western audiences.

In its day the most popular book on the—at that time—poorly understood nation of Japan. William Elliot Griffis experienced Japan first hand as an educator and advisor, arriving as early as 1871. He published this volume less than 10 years after the turbulent end of feudalism, covering an impressive span of history from 660 BC to the Meiji Restoration of 1868.