Ian Reader Book order

The book offers a fresh perspective on the interplay between religion and tourism, particularly in Japan, challenging the notion that tourism enhances religious engagement. Ian Reader argues that tourism actually contributes to secularization in the country and emphasizes the state's influence in shaping this dynamic. Through his analysis, he provides valuable insights into the contemporary religious landscape and the complexities of how tourism interacts with spiritual practices and beliefs.

a stimulating introduction to an important feature of all religions. Church of England Newspaper

Exploring the intersection of pilgrimage and consumerism, this book highlights how marketing and promotional efforts by both religious leaders and secular groups shape the success of pilgrimage sites. It argues that the dynamics of the marketplace play a crucial role in establishing these sites, moving beyond traditional narratives of miracles and populism. By examining these influences, the work reveals how the concept of the 'sacred' is maintained within a consumer-driven context.

Brief History - Politics - Economic Life - Traditions - Friendships & Family - Relationships - Bureaucracy - Religion - Humour - Local Holidays - Taboos - Invitations - Gifts - Dress - Business etiquette - Punctuality & Appointments - Team working

The book offers a thorough exploration of the 88-temple pilgrimage circuit on Shikoku Island, blending the author's extensive personal experience with deep insights into Japanese scholarship and history. Its well-researched narrative provides a unique perspective on the cultural and spiritual significance of the pilgrimage, highlighting the author's profound understanding of the subject matter.

The book examines the transformation of Aum, a religious movement rooted in yoga, meditation, and enlightenment, into a group associated with violence. It delves into the spiritual origins of Aum and situates its evolution within contemporary Japanese religious trends, providing insights into the complex interplay between spirituality and extremism.

What role does religion play in contemporary Japanese society and in the lives of Japanese people today? Through a series of case-studies of religion in action - at crowded temples and festivals, in austere Zen meditation halls, at home and work, at dramatic fire rituals - it illustrates the immense variety, energy and colour inherent in Japanese religion while discussing the continued relevance and responses of religion in a rapidly modernising and changing society.