Kōtarō Nishida was a prominent Japanese philosopher, known for his contributions to the field of philosophy in the early 20th century. Born in 1870, he played a significant role in introducing Western philosophical ideas to Japan, particularly those of idealism and phenomenology. Nishida founded the Kyoto School, which became a center for philosophical thought in Japan. His most notable work, "An Inquiry into the Good," explores the relationship between self and the world, emphasizing the importance of experience in understanding reality. Nishida's ideas have influenced various fields, including religion, ethics, and aesthetics, making him a key figure in modern Japanese thought.