'Yoda shows how we might ease our own suffering and reawaken a profound appreciation of the
beauty of the world' RUTH OZEKI Women's Prize-winning and Booker Prize-shortlisted author In
Eight Million Ways to Happiness Hiroko Yoda invites readers on a deeply personal and
transformative journey into the spiritual heart of Japan. While millions have found inspiration
in ideas like ikigai or The Courage to Be Disliked Hiroko reveals the deeper traditions that
quietly shape Japan's culture drawn from Shinto Buddhism and the mountain mysticism of
Shugendo. These aren't abstract philosophies. They are living practices that integrate so
seamlessly with modern secular life even natives can forget they are there. Reconnecting with
them helped Hiroko find light after profound loss - and realise that they offer powerful tools
for anyone seeking meaning connection or peace in their own life. Through vivid storytelling
and immersive experiences - dancing at Shinto shrines climbing sacred peaks and meeting
mystics - Hiroko shows how Japan's flexible approach to spirituality helps kindle gratitude
connection and kinship with nature. What emerges are practical insights and gentle guidance to
spark joy find balance and discover what truly matters. Whether you're grieving searching
or simply curious this book is a reminder: there are millions of ways to be happy. You just
have to find yours.
