Abstract

★Exploring a Better Relationship Between Humans and Animals Through Japanese Folklore and Beliefs〉
★Learning from Our Ancestors’ Ways of Coexisting with Animals in an Era of Uncertain Human–Animal Relationships〉

In recent years, a wide range of issues concerning the relationship between humans and animals have emerged, including pets, fur, whaling, increasingly frequent incidents involving bears, wild boars, and other animals that pose risks to humans, and serious crop damage caused by deer.

In the past, however, the Japanese people revered animals and other living creatures as objects of worship, while also treating them with awe. Numerous legends, folk tales, and traditions associated with animals have survived to this day.

Drawing on Japanese folklore, traditions, and religious beliefs, this book explores examples of human–animal relationships across ten chapters. With coexistence as its central theme, it examines the relationship between humans and animals from the perspective of folklore studies, offering insights into how we might build a better relationship with the natural world today.

Author’s Information

Born in Kyoto in 1955, he graduated from the Faculty of Letters at Doshisha University and completed the required coursework for the doctoral program at the Graduate School of Bukkyo University.His field of specialization is folklore studies, and he holds a Ph.D. in Literature.

He has served in numerous positions, including Professor in the Faculty of History at Bukkyo University, President of the World Oni Association, President of the Kyoto Folklore Society, Board Member of the Gion Festival Ayagasaboko Preservation Association, a public interest incorporated foundation, and Representative Director of the Kyoto Festival and Cultural Education Association. He has also served on cultural property preservation councils for Kyoto Prefecture and Kyoto City, among other positions.