Kokuikō

The Kokuikō is a significant work by Kamo Mabuchi, a key figure in the Kokugaku ("National Learning") movement in Japan. This movement aimed to revive ancient Japanese traditions and culture by returning to pre-foreign influence ideals. Mabuchi, born in 1697, believed that early Japanese literature, particularly the Man'yōshū poetry collection and Norito Shinto rituals, represented the pure Japanese spirit, uncorrupted by Chinese thought.

The Kokuikō itself is characterized by a strong rejection of Chinese philosophy and literature, instead glorifying Japan's ancient past. Mabuchi's work, collected in twelve volumes, primarily consists of commentaries on Old Japanese literature, advocating for a return to these foundational texts and styles. This emphasis on native traditions was a core tenet of the Kokugaku movement, which sought to restore a distinct Japanese identity.123