Shinnyoen in the UK

Abstract

A brief outline of Shinnyoen's beginnings shows how the founder and leader, ltô Shinjô, incorporated a string of tragedies and hardships into the teachings and practices of the movement. It is described how Shinnyoen is organised, both in Japan and in other countries where it is trying to find a following. The movement's beliefs and practices are deeply rooted in its culture of origin which, it is suggested, may be one of the stumbling‐blocks for recruiting successfully outside Japan. Particular attention is given to the organisation and following in the UK, with a comparison of British and Japanese members. The author concludes that both Shinnyoen's organisational structure and passive approach to proselytism will hinder its successful transplantation to other cultural contexts.