ABSTRACT
A stereotype of Japanese businessmen as 'workaholics' still survives to a large extent today, although in practice there are considerable variations in the hours per week actually spent at work. Middle-class, middle-aged women form a 'floating' group in Japanese society who might have more time available for leisure activities. One of the areas in which this overlap between 'religion' and 'recreation' is most conspicuous lies in attitudes to shrine or temple visits. A connection with concepts of purity and pollution – often associated with Shinto – can be seen also in other practices during the New Year period. The fact that shrines and temples often constitute the main places containing public parks and gardens in many cities means that they are often utilized for sporting or social activities. One of the highlights in the calendar of many Shinto shrines is its annual festival (matsuri), many of which incorporate music, song or dance.
