Daniela Agostinho, nº3222153, TUFS, Japan: Society and Ideology

Mito Influences on Modern Japanese Life and Society

The Mito School played a pivotal role in shaping Japanese intellectual thought during the

Edo period (1603-1868). Established in the city of Mito, it encompassed a range of

influential thinkers who sought to redefine Japan's national identity and provide moral

guidance for the nation. This essay explores the enduring Mito influences on modern

Japanese life and society, with a particular focus on the ideas of some Mito thinkers

namely Aizawa Seishisai, Tokugawa Mitsukuni and Motoori Norinaga.

Aizawa Seishisai was instrumental in formulating the concept of kokugaku, which

emphasized the study of Japanese history, culture, and traditions. Seishisai believed that

by revisiting Japan's indigenous roots, the nation could rediscover its unique identity and

resist foreign influences. (Brownlee, 2000) His influential work, New Theses on

Government, advocated for a centralized monarchy with the emperor as the supreme ruler,

thus challenging the Tokugawa shogunate's authority. (Nakai, 1988)

Seishisai's ideas had a profound impact on modern Japanese society. The study of

kokugaku became a significant academic pursuit, fostering a sense of national pride and

cultural resurgence. This renewed appreciation for Japanese heritage can be seen in

various aspects of modern Japanese life. For instance, traditional arts and crafts such as

ikebana (flower arrangement), tea ceremonies, and kabuki theater have experienced a

resurgence in popularity. Moreover, the preservation of ancient temples, shrines, and

historical sites has become a priority, further reinforcing the connection to Japan's past.

Seishisai's ideas fostered a sense of nationalism and patriotism among the Japanese

people.(Brownlee, 2000) His call to uphold the kokutai and resist foreign influences
Daniela Agostinho, nº3222153, TUFS, Japan: Society and Ideology

resonated with many, leading to a surge in national pride and a commitment to preserving

Japanese traditions and values. While Seishisai's focus was on the restoration of imperial

authority, his ideas indirectly contributed to Japan's modernization and Westernization

efforts. The Meiji Restoration that followed brought about rapid reforms, including the

abolishment of the feudal system, the establishment of a centralized government, and the

adoption of Western technologies and institutions. (Brownlee, 2000) The Meiji

government, influenced by Seishisai's ideas, drafted the Meiji Constitution in 1889. While

the constitution established a constitutional monarchy, it retained significant powers for

the emperor, reflecting the influence of Seishisai's emphasis on imperial authority. (Nakai,

1988)

Another influential figure from the Mito School was Tokugawa Mitsukuni, who was

known for his compilation of the Dai Nihonshi (Great History of Japan). Mitsukuni

sought to create a comprehensive historical account that celebrated Japan's national

heritage, fostering a sense of unity and shared identity among the people. (Webb, 1960)

His work emphasized the values of loyalty, filial piety, and respect for authority. The

teachings of Mitsukuni influenced modern Japanese society in several ways. The concept

of national unity and reverence for authority continue to resonate in contemporary Japan.

The importance placed on harmonious relationships and social cohesion can be observed

in the strong emphasis on group-oriented behavior in Japanese society. Concepts such as

wa (harmony) and gaman (endurance) are deeply ingrained in the collective

consciousness, promoting social cohesion and stability. (Markovic, -)

Finally, Motoori Norinaga was a prominent scholar and philologist who made significant
Daniela Agostinho, nº3222153, TUFS, Japan: Society and Ideology

contributions to the field of Japanese literature. He played a key role in the development

of the nativist school of thought, which focused on the study and interpretation of classical

Japanese texts. Norinaga's most famous work, Kojiki-den (Commentaries on the Kojiki),

was a critical analysis of Japan's oldest chronicle, the Kojiki. In this monumental work,

he argued for the significance of native Japanese literature as a source of authentic cultural

values. (Jun'ichi, I., & Thal, 2000)

Norinaga's emphasis on Japanese literature and its intrinsic value in understanding the

essence of the Japanese spirit had a lasting impact on modern Japanese society. His work

laid the foundation for the continued study and appreciation of classical Japanese

literature, even in contemporary times. Today, Japanese literature from various historical

periods is celebrated, and classical literary works are often incorporated into school

curriculums, helping to foster a deep connection to the country's literary heritage.

Overall, the concepts of kokugaku, national unity, cultural uniqueness, and reverence for

authority have influenced various aspects of Japanese culture, education, and social

cohesion. The study of Japanese history and culture has fostered a strong sense of national

pride, leading to the preservation and resurgence of traditional arts, crafts, and historical

sites. The teachings of the Mito School have played a crucial role in shaping Japan's

unique identity and continuing to guide its path in the modern world.

Reference List

BROWNLEE, J. S. (2000). “Four stages of the Japanese kokutai (national essence)”. In

JSAC Conference, University of British Columbia.

Daniela Agostinho, nº3222153, TUFS, Japan: Society and Ideology

JUN’ICHI, I., & Thal, S. E. (2000). “Reappropriating the Japanese myths: Motoori

Norinaga and the creation myths of the Kojiki and Nihon shoki”. Japanese Journal of

Religious Studies, 15-39.

MARKOVIC, L. “Japan and National Identity in Modernization”. Society Culture

National Identity & Immigration, 11.

NAKAI, K. W. (1988). “The Mito Ideology: Discourse, Reform, and Insurrection in Late

Tokugawa Japan, 1790-1864”. pp. 526-534

WEBB, H. (1960). “What Is the Dai Nihon Shi?. The Journal of Asian Studies, 19(2),

135-149.