Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The course of Daoisms influence across the landscape of Japanese religious culture has a history much like that of the Horikawa. Daoism's presence in Japan still may be discerned in its abiding influence on astrology, divination, festivals, literature, politics, and popular culture, not to mention Buddhism and Shinto. The book looks at the influence of Daoism on ancient, medieval and modern Japan in turn. It demonstrates how Chinese influence on Japanese religious culture ironically proved to be crucial in establishing traditions that usually are seen as authentically, even quintessentially, Japanese. Touching on multiple facets of Japanese cultural history and religious traditions. This book is intended to be a fascinating contribution for students and scholars of Japanese Culture, History and Religions, as well as Daoist Studies.