Faculty of Letters

Department of
Religious Culture

Explore human wisdom and human nature through religions of the world

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Religions are treasure troves of human wisdom. They are the foundations that shape the cultures of countries and regions and are deeply connected to the roots of art and music. Study themes such as myths and urban legends as well as films and anime are distinctive features of the Department of Religious Culture. Students can cultivate the ability to thrive in the era of multicultural coexistence by understanding philosophies and values, customs, and the conditions and cultures of the world.


  1. Knowledge of religions brings new charms and the depth of history and cultures into view


    Religions are deeply involved in various things and events around us. Digging deeper into religions may reveal other facets of history and culture.

  2. Manga and anime become even more interesting when you know about religions and myths


    Many of the stories and characters in manga and anime have their roots in religions or myths, and you are sure to discover new charms in these works.

  3. Learn about the Zen philosophy attracting global attention through Zazen (seated meditation)


    Through literature and other sources, decipher the historical background and philosophy of Zen currently attracting attention. At AGU, a university based on the philosophy of Zen Buddhism, experience Zazen to get closer to its essence.

Three fields for deciphering religions from a range of perspectives

The department offers three fields: Religious Culture, Buddhist Culture, and Zen Culture. Students explore religions from a range of perspectives, including history, psychology, cultural anthropology, sociology, and art and decipher the present day of the world while getting closer to the essence of issues of international society. In addition, the department conducts plenty of active learning and fieldwork where students can independently learn based on their own interests.

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Four-year curriculum for cultivating empathy for multicultural coexistence

Insight into the essence of things

  1. 1st year

    • Learn the basics of religious, Buddhist, and Zen studies

    • Cultivate the reading comprehension and writing skills required for learning

    • Conduct fieldwork and present results

    • Gain experiences in collaborating with society and peers

  2. 2nd year

    • Extensively learn advanced content in each field as the number of selectable specialized subjects increases

    • Cultivate the literature reading skills required for your studies

    • Career education provided to raise attitudes toward work

  3. 3rd year

    • Select one of the three specialties and join a seminar

    • Go on joint study tours to ancient and famous temples

    • Decide study theme to explore in depth

  4. 4th year

    • Make study presentations repeatedly in seminars

    • Cultivate presentation skills

    • Complete graduation thesis

    • Continuous support for job seeking