Japanese Religion: Kyoto Shrines & Temples with Marcin Tatarczuk

This webinar will try to answer the question, where does this fascinating, yet somehow strange idea of blending religions in Japan come from? We'll discuss Shintoism, Buddhism and visit virtually some Kyoto temples and shrines with a local Kyoto scholar and resident.

During our conversation we will learn about the origins of Japanese spirituality at first by focusing on Shinto - Japan's indigenous religion - its gods and its mythology. Although ancient, it is still being practiced nowadays in Japan, and many customs, rites, and festivals are derived from it.

Next, we learn about the Japanese variant of Buddhism, which by religious scholars is referred to as "death Buddhism". Though originally from India, Buddhism found its way to Japan, where it was reshaped according to a local worldview and blended with spirituality centered around nature. It brought many new ideas and concepts to Japan which we will learn more about. Both Shintoism and Buddhism influenced the lives and culture of Japanese people through the ages and what we see today, in Kyoto and many other cities and villages, is a result of this very interesting mix.

To conclude our conversation, we will virtually visit some of the shrines and temples in Kyoto. We'll use them as an example to discover how the religious syncretism works in the everyday life of a Japanese local.

Led by an expert on Japanese history, folklore, and religion, Marcin Tatarczuk, this interactive seminar will present Japanese religions and spirituality. Designed to inform curiosity as well as future travels, participants will come away with an increased understanding of Japanese culture and hopefully plenty of curiosity to experience different cultures and ideas.

Marcin is a Ph.D. Candidate at Kyoto University, studying Folk culture in contemporary Japan. In his spare time, he enjoys walking through Kyoto's streets rediscovering its secrets. He also enjoys riding his Kawasaki motorcycle, seeking more remote and hidden places. Marcin has lived in Kyoto for 11 years and worked for Context as a guide for the last 4 years.

This conversation is suitable for all ages

90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.