Budo, or the practice of traditional Japanese martial arts for self-cultivation, is about more than learning how to fight. Real budo is a way of seeking and grasping meaning in life. Suino’s advice on training and etiquette will be helpful to beginning students, and will act as a potent reminder to more seasoned practitioners. Advanced students will especially appreciate Suino’s explanation of budo philosophy.

In the appendices, the author also includes a survey of Japanese martial arts, the eight essential texts on budo, and an annotated bibliography.