This intensive program will provide students with an opportunity to enhance their understanding of Japanese culture while living and studying in Japan. The Japanese Religions course will examine the evolution of religious beliefs and practices in Japan and illustrate the relationship between Japan’s religions and various aspects of Japanese society and culture, such as art, poetry and literature, through classroom learning and numerous excursions to Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples in the Shiga area. The course will enable students to understand modern Japan in light of its distinctive religious traditions. Students will have the rare opportunity to stay at the Saikyo-ji (West Doctrine Temple) located at the foot of Mt. Hiei in Otsu City. This temple, built during the Asuka Period (552-710 A.D.), serves as the headquarters of the Shinsei sub-sect of Tendai Buddhism. It is famous for its Basho haiku stone and its main hall (honden) that houses a statue of Amida Nyorai. Both the main hall and the statue are designated as Important Cultural Properties by the Japanese government. Visitors to the temple also enjoy the twenty-five 16th century stone images of a Buddha. Each Buddha is depicted holding a musical instrument.
Program Leader: Douglas Sjoquist has researched and taught about the religions of Japan for over 20 years. Much of his research has been conducted in Shiga, where this program will take place.
Housing: During the first part of the program, students will be housed at the Saikyoji Temple near Otsu City. Students will experience life at a traditional Japanese temple, including opportunities for early morning Buddhism training and Zazen training. Rooms are designed for three- to four-person occupancy where students will sleep on a Japanese futon.
During the second part of the program, students will travel up to Hikone and stay at the Japan Center. JCMU student apartments are designed for double occupancy, each with a private bedroom/study and shared kitchen, dining area and bathroom. The residential building also contains a computer lab, wireless internet, laundry, television room, weight room and lounge.
Dates: May 11 - May 28, 2009
Academic Focus: 3-credit Japanese Religions course
Requirements: No prior Japanese language study is required. Students in various fields and majors are encouraged to apply.
Costs*: Program Fee - $1,800 (includes tuition, housing, books and health insurance)
Scholarships: Consortium member university students receive an automatic $200 scholarship.
Application Deadline: First Friday in March
For more information, contact: JCMU Program Office
*JCMU reserves the right to adjust fees at any time.