Spreading Buddhism via old-style storytelling

by Takeshi Nishide, Japan Times, Feb 6, 2014

OSAKA, Japan -- In an effort to broaden the understanding of Buddhism among the lay population, some followers are using a traditional form of Japanese storytelling as a teaching tool.

Funeral gripes fuel Buddhist rethink

by Takeshi Nishide, Japan Times, Dec 4, 2013

Kyoto, Japan -- An increasing number of Buddhist priests are re-evaluating funeral services amid rapidly changing attitudes over the way they are conducted.

Some Buddhist temples now accepting ashes through the mail

By SHIGEYORI MIYAMOTO, Asahi Shimbun, December 30, 2013

Tokyo, Japan -- A small number of Buddhist temples are being accused of blatant commercialism for providing burial services for cremated remains sent through the mail for one affordable and convenient fee.

Japanese Buddhists organize ‘monks without borders’

by John Hofilena, Japan Daily Press, Dec 17, 2013

Japanese Buddhists organize ‘monks without borders’

Kyoto, Japan -- A group of Buddhists in Japan have formed an organization called “Monks Without Borders,” aiming to unite different Buddhist sects in tackling global issues such as poverty. The new group is similar in name and in concept to organizations already created by doctors and reporters, and the monks recently held their inaugural meeting in the city of Kyoto.

Kukai and the impact of Shingon Buddhism in stunning Koyasan: Amazing beauty of Wakayama

by Michel Lebon and Walter Sebastian, Modern Tokyo Times, November 17, 2013

Koyasan, Japan -- Kukai is one of the most powerful individuals in Japanese history and religion. Today his legacy can be seen throughout Shingon Buddhism and this branch of Buddhism is still growing and developing in new countries. Kukai saw the world in a unique way and relayed this within esoteric Buddhism after various stages of his life created new milestones.