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The great philosopher Confucius (Kong Fu Zi) lived in China from 551 to 479 BC. Confucianism is one of the three traditional Chinese religions besides Taoism and Buddhism. According to early Japanese writings, it was introduced to Japan via Korea in the year 285 AD. Some of the most important Confucian principles are humanity, loyality, morality and consideration on an individual and political level. Neo-Confucianism (especially Chu Hsi Confucianism) was the most important philosophy of Tokugawa Japan in government and education. Its influence on Japanese society has been intensive which is still obvious today.

English Links

Confucius, K'ung-fu-tzu (The Proceedings of the Friesian School) Introduction to Confucianism ingeneral. Tokugawa Neo-Confucianism (World Cultures) Introduction to Japanese Neo-Confucianism of the Edo period. Works by Confucius (The Internet Classic Archive) Some online versions of Confucius' writings.