Practical study on propagation methods, cultural creation, and community coexistence through mainly temple activities in a depopulated local area
Interdisciplinary Research Grants
Practical study on propagation methods, cultural creation, and community coexistence through mainly temple activities in a depopulated local area.
FY 2023 to FY 2025
Principal Investigator
Hiroaki Kadono (Professor, Faculty of Letters, Ryukoku University)
Co-Investigators
Ryohkei Nishiyama (Lecturer, Faculty of Letters, Ryukoku University)
Akai Tomoaki (Associate Professor, Soai University)
Junsyo Kusunoki (Emeritus Professor, Ryukoku University)
Nobuaki Toyama (Research Associate, Jodo Shinshu Hongwanji-ha Research Institute)
Gakucyo Nagaoka (Lecturer, Chuo Bukkyo Gakuin)
Kimiaki Nasu (Researcher, Research Center for World Buddhist Cultures)
Tomoo Fujimaru (Part-time lecturer, Musashino University)
Research Type
Joint Research
Overview
With the trend towards a declining population and an aging society, depopulation is becoming more significant in various regions, and regional characteristics are being neglected. Buddhist temples in rural (depopulated) areas have practiced propagation as their primary activity, believing that the teachings they rely on provide the ultimate solution to the fundamental suffering of each individual. In accordance with this, religious sentiment has been cultivated based on these teachings, and distinctive events and cultures have been created and matured. In addition, they have become a part of local culture and have promoted regional coexistence.
This research will thus focus primarily on Jōdo Shinshū temples in depopulated areas, but will also look at collaborations and cooperation with other sects. It will investigate and analyze specific propagation methods and temple activities, and reinterpret and preserve Buddhist culture. The aim is to construct a new theory of propagation activities in depopulated areas, and to create a culture suited to contemporary society. Additionally, the knowledge and information revealed in this process will be archived and made widely available using academic methods.