Japan: Religion and Culture
In this course, we will explore the many religious and cultural traditions of Japan. Visiting both Tokyo and Kyoto, students will explore Japan’s unique religious history, with the intermingling of both Shinto and Buddhist traditions. Japan presents students with an opportunity to witness the development of a strong indigenous religion, Shinto, alongside the introduction of Buddhist traditions that arrived in Japan via Korea in the 8th century. We will explore shrines and temples (and sometimes shrines in temples), as well as the relationship between religion and the natural world. Students also experience historic practices, such as the tea ceremony, that exemplify the vibrancy of Japanese life.
*0.5 General Elective Credit
Projected Dates: May 23 – June 3, 2021 | Course Director: Danielle LaGrone, Instructor, Electives
Physical Activity: Moderate to Significant
