The definitive translation now encompassing never-before-seen images, including artwork by Musashi himself. Japan's business executives have long applied Musashi's teachings to their business methods. This book - the original life-guide by Japan's greatest warrior - means you can do so too. Written in 1645 by the most famous and unconquerable of all samurai, A Book of Five Rings is the classic guide to kendo swordmanship and a distillation of the philosophies of Zen, Shinto and Confucius. The West is now discovering what the Japanese have always known: that the ancient wisdom of the Samurai Way provides a strategy for decision and action in all areas of life - the home, the battleground and the boardroom.

Born 1584 in Japan, MIYAMOTO MUSASHI grew up to become a renowned and respected Samurai warrior, as well as author of various books on the art of the Samurai and succeeding in all areas of life.