Kiyonaga Kaionji, a master of historical fiction – This book, by the author who captivated the world with his unique historical perspective, explores the unknown aspects of history and humanity through twenty-three unique historical essays. These include anecdotes about the Ansei Purge and Hideyoshi's tiger hunt, historical facts related to the Satsuma Bushido and the introduction of firearms, and a nationwide smoking ban. It features "Chest," the lightning-fast swordsmanship of the Jigen-ryu style; "Nanshu Zuihitsu," which discusses the immense popularity and charm of Takamori Saigo, who greatly inspired Shigenobu Okuma; "Perry and Ii Naosuke," which details the circumstances of the Ansei Purge, carried out by the Great Elder Naosuke Ii as a pawn of the Ooku; and "Nagakubo Naho," which depicts the truth of the saying "Heaven helps those who help themselves." These untold stories of Japanese history, unearthed through years of research, will take you on a journey through another side of history. (Kinokuniya Bookstore) This is a copy of Kiyonaga Kaionji's "Walking Through Japanese History," published by PHP Institute in January 2008, with the original obi (book band). There is almost no yellowing due to age, and there are no stains, writing, or library stamps. Please consider purchasing this used book with the understanding that it is pre-owned.