NCC Center for the Study of Japanese Religions
Interreligious Studies in Japan Program (ISJP)
What is ISJP?
ISJP is a program offered to students who are interested in spending one semester in Japan learning about Japanese Religions.
One semester consists of courses on Shinto, Buddhism, reading a classic Buddhist text in translation, New Religions, Japanese Christianity, Theology of Religions, and introduction to the Japanese language. Theoretical studies are supplemented by an exposure program consisting of field trips to various religious centers and meetings with their representatives. Attending one semester offers basic information, while participation in two semesters provides broader knowledge.
The goal is to widen the students’ perspectives towards other religions and to deepen their own faith in order to build peace among people of different religions.
Purpose
The ISJP offers the following learning opportunities:
-
Convey a solid basic knowledge of religions in Japan.
-
Experience of religions in Japan.
-
Interreligious dialogue (encounter with religions in Japan).
-
Introduction to Japanese culture and spirituality.
-
Exposure to the situation of churches in a religiously
-
plural environment and introduction to problems of enculturation.
-
Introduction to Theology in dialogue.
Target Group
Students of theology (all denominations); students of education who intend to become school teachers in religion; graduate and postgraduate students of theology, education, Japanese studies and religious studies. Students are expected to be open to new learning experiences in a foreign culture (cross-cultural communication). Solid knowledge of English is required for the classes.
Credits
Participants receive certificates for each class as well as for the whole program. Students, who write a paper on a subject agreed with the teacher receive credited certificates.
Living Costs & Tuition
Living costs including accommodation are a minimum of ¥120,000 per month.
Tuition is ¥100,000 per semester.
Application
How to Apply
Please fill in the application form in English; enclose your curriculum vitae (including university studies, hobbies and volunteer activities); a letter of recommendation by a professor; photocopy of passport for visa application (validity minimum one year); letter of guarantee for sufficient financial support (e.g. scholarship).
Application Deadlines
March 31 for fall semester.
Please send your applications to the Program Coordinator. Candidates should apply for visas at a Japanese embassy or consulate in their home countries. The proper category is “cultural visa” (bunka visa).
Contact
Don't hesitate to contact us with your questions or comments:
Send us an email
Attn. Coordinator
Interreligious Studies in Japan Program (ISJP)
NCC Center for the Study of Japanese Religions
12-1, Higashigekko-cho, Nishinokyo,
Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto 604-8422, JAPAN
