comprehensive introduction to the religious traditions of the Japanese, including material on ancient Japan, Shinto and Buddhism in Japanese history, the coming of Christianity and religion in modern Japan. Perspectives are given on the role of religion in the dark years of extreme nationalism and World War II, during the post war Occupation, on new of Japan, and recent developments such as the Aum Shinrikyo gas attack in Tokyo subways, and the religious or mythological background of contemporary Japanese contributions to world culture such as anime, manga, and video games. Japan's is a complexly interwoven culture to which religion provides one important entryway. Let me know what you think.