Bushido, the samurai code influenced by Zen and Shinto, had a significant impact on Japanese society beyond just the samurai class. While it was primarily developed as a code of conduct for the warrior class, its principles and values permeated through various aspects of Japanese society and culture.

One of the key ways in which Bushido influenced Japanese society was through its emphasis on honor, loyalty, and duty. These values were not exclusive to the samurai class, but were also expected and admired in other social classes. The concept of loyalty to one's lord or superior, known as "giri," was deeply ingrained in Japanese society and was seen as a virtue to be upheld by all. This sense of duty and loyalty extended beyond just the military and was also expected in familial and societal relationships.

Additionally, the principles of Bushido also had a strong influence on the arts and literature of Japan. The idea of the "way of the warrior" and the pursuit of perfection in one's craft were reflected in various forms of art, such as calligraphy, painting, and poetry. The samurai's discipline and focus on self-improvement were also reflected in the practice of martial arts, which became an integral part of Japanese culture.

Moreover, the influence of Bushido can also be seen in the development of the Japanese education system. The samurai class was responsible for the education of their children, and the principles of Bushido were often incorporated into their teachings. This led to the widespread acceptance and promotion of values such as discipline, respect, and self-control in Japanese society.

The impact of Bushido can also be observed in the development of the Japanese legal system. The concept of honor and duty played a crucial role in the administration of justice, and the samurai's code of conduct was often used as a basis for determining guilt or innocence. This further solidified the influence of Bushido on Japanese society, as it became an integral part of the legal and moral framework.

In conclusion, while Bushido was primarily developed for the samurai class, its influence extended far beyond just the warrior class. Its principles and values shaped the social, cultural, and moral fabric of Japanese society and continue to have a lasting impact to this day. The legacy of Bushido can be seen in the strong sense of honor, loyalty, and discipline that is still deeply ingrained in Japanese culture.