In addition to developing a taste for Japanese business, a young Knight also developed an interest in Japanese culture, especially the philosophy of Zen. Throughout Shoe Dog, Knight returns to the motif of Zen to demonstrate his maturity as well as that of his growing business. When recounting his very first trip to Japan, for example, Knight reflects on the lines from Zen and the Art of Archery: “Perfection in the art of swordsmanship is reached […] when your heart is troubled by no more thought of I and You, of the opponent and his sword, of one’s own sword and how to wield it” (23). In other words, forgetting the self is critical to success. At this point, Zen represents a way for Knight to achieve victory as an athlete or a businessman. This philosophy is evident in Knight’s leadership style, particularly his penchant for Telling the Truth as a Successful Business Strategy, even when doing so is embarrassing.

However, what starts as a simple interest in one aspect of Japanese culture develops into a life-long relationship with the country of Japan and a deeper and more nuanced understanding of its business practices.