Japan: Buddhist Studies
Explore Japan (and explore yourself) through the study and practice of Zen, Shingon, and True Pure Land
Program Description
The Buddhist Studies in Japan Program introduces students to the development, teachings and diverse cultural expressions of Japanese Buddhism, including such arts as flower arranging, calligraphy and the tea ceremony. Students not only have the opportunity to study Buddhism in theory, but actually participate in a variety of Buddhist meditative and chanting practices, as well as learn the Japanese language (on an optional basis) while pursuing their own academic interests through a directed research project. Students experience Japanese campus life through classes at Buddhist-affiliated Ryukoku University, while living as 'lay pilgrams' in a neaby temple hostel. In this setting, they gain firsthand experience of the Japanese Buddhist traditions through daily life, ritual, and seminar. Director Brian Victoria, PhD, assisted by professors, practitioners, and local on-site experts, leads students on this journey that provides a unique opportunity to encounter the people and culture of Japan in what has been for many students a life-changing experience.
- To view and print our program information page, click here.
- Visit the Antioch Buddhist Studies in Japan Video Collection.
- Also, view the webpage of Buddhist Studies in Japan participant William J. Kawaihae for an in-depth student description of this unique program. (Please note that the program itinerary has been revised since this student particpated. The program now starts and ends in Kyoto, Japan.)
"The program was educational and a once-in-a-lifetime chance to experience the Buddhist world in Japan in such an intimate way."
- Bethany Lauretano, Smith College
Students are encouraged to explore the subject of Japanese Buddhism from various points of view. Western academic models are used in the academic courses, while Buddhist teachings associated with the Zen, Shingon and True Pure Land (Shin) schools are exercised in the Practice and Theory of Buddhism course. As participant-observers, students are asked to examine their own cultural and intellectual assumptions as they pursue these studies in a challenging and supportive environment.
Lecturers in History, Religion, Art, Music, and Buddhist Studies from both American and Buddhist-affiliated Japanese universities, especially Kyoto's Ryukoku University, bring their expertise to the program.
"The meditation is superior. This is why I came."
- Jeff Silverman, American University
Students from a wide variety of schools have participated in the Buddhist Studies Program in Japan since it first began in 1999. A sampling of these institutions include: Amherst College, Barnard College (Columbia), DePauw University, Gustavus Adolphus College, Harvard College, Knox College, Macalester College, Northwestern University, Oberlin College, Rutgers University, Smith College, Swarthmore College, University of Hawaii, University of the Ozarks, Vassar College and Williams College.