buddhism

SOCIETY

Happy Science: Inside Japan’s Far-Right Religious Movement

In the mid-1980s, a Japanese salaryman declared himself the reincarnation of Buddha and Hermes. Now his religious organization claims millions of adherents.

CULTURE

Hatsumode: Japan’s First Shrine Visit of the New Year

How Japan's most popular New Years custom has changed over the centuries.

CULTURE

Mottainai Culture: The History and Philosophy of Waste in Japan

Though sometimes honored more in the breach than the observance, Japan's philosophy of "waste not, want not" strongly influences everyday culture.

CULTURE

Shinto: The History and Practice of Japan’s Native Religion

Shinto is more than a religion - it's also an indelible part of Japanese culture. Krys Suzuki discusses the structure, beliefs, and…

TECHNOLOGY

QR Code of the Gods: Will Tech Save Religion in Japan?

From drone-riding Buddhas to monk rentals on Amazon, Japan's temples and shrines are finding unique ways to stay solvent during uncertain times.

FEATURED

Religion in Japan: A Complex and Intricate Affair

Why, in a country littered with shrines and temples, does the majority of the population claim to practice no religion?