Kokugaku

Kokugaku, or "National Learning," is a Japanese intellectual movement that emerged in the Edo period, focusing on rediscovering and valuing Japan’s native culture, history, and language. It emphasized studying ancient Japanese texts and traditions to foster national identity, often in contrast to Chinese and Western influences. Kokugaku scholars aimed to understand Japan’s unique cultural roots independently, which influenced later nationalist thought. Overall, it’s a movement centered on appreciating and revitalizing Japan’s indigenous heritage through scholarly study.