NCC Center for the Study of Japanese Religions, Kyoto Japanese









True understanding of other religions deepens values of one’s own faith.
Photo: Markuz Wernli Saitô
ISJP Study Program

Providing a solid basis for cross-cultural communication and interreligious understanding among young people

In response to global tensions among religions today, the Interreligious Studies in Japan Program (ISJP) offers a systematic study of Japanese religions and provides opportunities for interreligious dialogue. Its aim is to promote mutual understanding as a basis for peaceful coexistence and cooperation.

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 traditions. Plan your participation early: Application deadlines are March 31 for fall, and October 31 for spring semester.



Ongoing Events

Lectures and Seminars on Religions in Japan

The NCC Study Center organizes seminars, lectures, and research projects on religions in Japan, thereby providing opportunities for people of different religions to encounter each other. For ongoing program, see events.

Why Religious Dialogue?

“The dialogue is simply one aspect of Christian universal love, and love has no Why.”
Prof. em. Jan van Bragt (former Director of the Nanzan Institute for Religion and Culture)

Latest Publications

The latest issue of our English journal Japanese Religions (Vol. 37 Nos. 1&2, Spring & Fall 2012) is now available.

Publications in Japanese are the periodical Deai (“Encounter”), the Newsletter, and occasional publications of books.

Interreligious Networks

The NCC Study Center's biggest asset is the trustful relationship with other religious organizations in and outside Japan. Networking helps to foster mutual understanding, which is essential for research and dialogue.