Exploring the Essence of 'It's Good for a Walk': A Deep Dive into the Sampo Yoshi Philosophy

In the heart of Japan, the land of the rising sun, lies a culture deeply woven with centuries-old traditions, morals, and philosophies that continue to influence modern life. Among these ancient yet timeless concepts, the Sampo Yoshi philosophy stands out as a guiding light for ethical decision-making in both personal life and business. Today, I invite you to join me in an exploration of this philosophy, a reflection on the essence of the phrase “it’s good for a walk,” and how this simple yet profound concept resonates in today’s world.

The inspiration for this journey into Sampo Yoshi comes from the musings of Kansai Buddy, a fellow Japanese podcaster who often reflects on the intricate blend of tradition and modernity that shapes Japanese culture. His podcast, which delves into both the ordinary and extraordinary aspects of life in Japan, offers an insightful look at how this ancient philosophy still holds relevance in today’s society.

Understanding the Sampo Yoshi Philosophy

The phrase “it’s good for a walk” encapsulates a deeper, metaphorical meaning within the framework of the Sampo Yoshi philosophy. At first glance, it might seem like an innocuous, everyday comment—something you’d say to someone heading out for a stroll. But dig a little deeper, and you’ll uncover its connection to the philosophy of “three directions good,” or Sampo Yoshi. This philosophy, rooted in traditional Japanese business ethics, can be traced back to the merchants of the Omi region during the Edo period, long before modern capitalism shaped global economic thinking.

At its core, Sampo Yoshi represents a holistic way of making decisions, with the belief that any action should benefit three parties: the seller (or individual), the buyer (or society), and the larger world (or environment). It’s about achieving harmony and balance in every action, ensuring that decisions are not only profitable but also socially responsible and environmentally sound.

While this concept was first popularized by Omi merchants, it gained modern traction thanks to the influence of Eiichi Shibusawa, a prominent businessman and philanthropist who is set to be featured on Japan’s new 10,000 yen bill. Shibusawa’s interpretation of Sampo Yoshi expanded the philosophy beyond the realm of commerce, promoting it as a way of life—a way to live with integrity, foresight, and compassion for the community and the planet.

Breaking Down the Three Directions

1. Good for the Seller (Individual): Any action or decision must, of course, benefit the individual or business making it. In the modern context, this means that a business should be profitable, but not at the expense of others. It should sustain itself, provide value to its owners or stakeholders, and foster personal growth and success for the individual.

2. Good for the Buyer (Society): The second direction speaks to the idea that one’s actions must benefit the community or society as a whole. Whether it’s through providing quality products, offering valuable services, or fostering social goodwill, businesses and individuals should strive to enhance the lives of others.

3. Good for the World (Environment): Finally, Sampo Yoshi stresses the importance of being good for the world. This environmental awareness, though it may seem like a modern concern, has always been a part of Japanese culture. Respecting nature, conserving resources, and ensuring that actions don’t harm the planet are key aspects of this philosophy.

Taken together, these three principles form a balanced approach to decision-making, one that transcends individual gain and considers the broader impact of our actions. In many ways, Sampo Yoshi echoes the growing movement toward corporate social responsibility and sustainable business practices around the globe.

Historical Context of Sampo Yoshi

To fully appreciate the significance of Sampo Yoshi, it’s helpful to understand its historical roots. During the Edo period (1603–1868), Japan was a closed society, with limited trade and contact with the outside world. The country’s economy was largely self-sustained, with local merchants playing a vital role in distributing goods and services across the various regions.

The Omi merchants, who hailed from what is now known as Shiga Prefecture, became renowned for their integrity, fairness, and ethical business practices. They embraced the Sampo Yoshi philosophy as a guiding principle for their commerce, believing that success in business wasn’t just about making money—it was about contributing to the well-being of the community and the environment.

Interestingly, this approach to commerce was at odds with the prevailing moral views influenced by Confucianism and Buddhism, which traditionally regarded the pursuit of wealth with suspicion. Confucian teachings emphasized the importance of virtue, sacrifice, and the rejection of material desires, while Buddhism taught detachment from worldly possessions. However, the Omi merchants challenged these beliefs by proving that wealth and virtue could coexist. They demonstrated that business could be a noble pursuit, provided it was conducted ethically and for the benefit of all parties involved.

The lasting legacy of the Omi merchants, and the Sampo Yoshi philosophy they embodied, continues to shape Japanese business culture to this day. It has even influenced global companies that now embrace sustainability and corporate responsibility as key elements of their business strategies.

The Modern Relevance of Sampo Yoshi

Fast-forward to the present day, and the world of business looks drastically different. Globalization, rapid technological advancements, and the relentless pursuit of profit have led to an often ruthless corporate environment. In such a landscape, it’s easy to see how the principles of Sampo Yoshi might seem out of step. However, I believe that this philosophy is more relevant now than ever before.

In recent years, there has been growing awareness about the need for businesses to operate in a more ethical and sustainable manner. Climate change, social inequality, and environmental degradation are issues that can no longer be ignored, and many businesses are now recognizing that they have a responsibility to contribute to the greater good.

The Sampo Yoshi philosophy provides a blueprint for how businesses can achieve this balance. By considering not just the bottom line but also the impact on society and the environment, companies can build long-term sustainability and success. It’s not just about doing the right thing—it’s also about creating lasting value for all stakeholders.

Take, for example, Kansai Buddy, the host of the podcast that inspired this reflection. As a restaurant employee and podcaster, Kansai Buddy embodies the Sampo Yoshi philosophy in his daily life. He approaches his work with the belief that his actions should benefit his customers, his community, and the environment. Whether he’s sharing insights on Japanese culture or ensuring that his restaurant operates in an environmentally friendly way, Kansai Buddy strives to live out the principles of Sampo Yoshi every day.

His work is a reminder that this philosophy isn’t just for big corporations or high-profile entrepreneurs—it’s something that can be applied at every level of business and in every corner of our lives.

Sampo Yoshi in Japanese Culture

The connection between the Sampo Yoshi philosophy and Japanese culture runs deep. In fact, much of traditional Japanese culture can be seen as an embodiment of these principles. From the meticulous craftsmanship of artisans to the reverence for nature and the environment, Japanese culture is filled with examples of how the Sampo Yoshi philosophy is lived out in everyday life.

Take the art of Kintsugi, for instance, where broken pottery is repaired with lacquer mixed with powdered gold or silver. The philosophy behind Kintsugi aligns perfectly with Sampo Yoshi. It’s not about discarding something because it’s broken, but about making it whole again in a way that adds even greater value. It’s about respecting the material, the work of the artist, and the object’s place in the world—a small but powerful illustration of how Japanese culture reflects the values of sustainability and respect for the environment.

Even in the world of business, Japanese companies are often known for their commitment to quality, service, and environmental consciousness. Large corporations like Toyota and Sony have incorporated sustainability into their core business models, showing that even in the fast-paced world of global commerce, the principles of Sampo Yoshi can still guide decision-making.

Applying Sampo Yoshi to Modern Life

You don’t have to be a merchant or a business owner to apply the Sampo Yoshi philosophy to your life. The essence of “it’s good for a walk” can be translated into everyday actions, from how we make decisions about the food we eat to how we interact with others.

Think about the simple act of going for a walk. When you step outside and take a moment to observe the world around you, you’re engaging in a practice that’s good for your body (the individual), good for your mind and spirit (society), and good for the environment (the world). Walking connects us with nature, slows us down, and gives us a chance to reflect on our actions and how they impact the world around us.

In much the same way, the Sampo Yoshi philosophy invites us to reflect on the broader implications of our choices. Whether we’re deciding what products to buy, how to spend our time, or how to engage with others, we can ask ourselves: is this decision good for me? Is it good for those around me? Is it good for the world?

Conclusion

The Sampo Yoshi philosophy, encapsulated in the phrase “it’s good for a walk,” serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of social responsibility and ethical decision-making. It encourages us to look beyond our immediate needs and desires and consider the impact of our actions on others and the world around us.

In today’s fast-paced, profit-driven world, this ancient philosophy offers a refreshing perspective—a reminder that success isn’t just measured by financial gain, but by the positive impact we leave on society and the planet. By embracing the principles of Sampo Yoshi, we can create a future where business and life are driven not just by

profit, but by purpose.

As Kansai Buddy continues to share his reflections on life in Japan through his podcast, his message of everyday mindfulness and ethical living is one that resonates far beyond the borders of Japan. Whether it’s through a simple walk, a well-cooked meal, or a mindful decision at work, we can all embrace the essence of Sampo Yoshi and find harmony in our own lives.