Heritage and Religion in East Asia

Heritage and Religion in East Asia explores how religious heritage crosses national boundaries in East Asia, stimulating cross-border interactions and boosting tourism along modern pilgrimage routes. It argues that diversity and vibrancy make religious discourse in East Asia unique and empowers heritage practices.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 248 pages
Publication date: 01 August 2022
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

East Asia's rich cultural heritage is intertwined with its diverse religious traditions, creating a complex tapestry of beliefs and practices. In her book "Heritage and Religion in East Asia," Dr. Chen explores how religious heritage, in a mobile way, crosses national boundaries in the region, providing new theoretical insights into the articulation of heritage and religion.

Drawing on extensive primary and comparative research conducted in four East Asian countries, including China, Taiwan, South Korea, and Japan, by East Asian scholars themselves, the book showcases how the inscription of religious items as heritage has fostered cross-border interactions among religious practitioners and boosted tourism along modern pilgrimage routes. It raises important questions about the role of heritage in a region where Buddhism, Taoism, and other various folk religious practices dominate.

The contributors to the volume argue that the uniqueness of religious discourse in East Asia lies in its diversity and vibrancy, which are energized and empowered by heritage practices. They explore how this particularity contributes to the region's rich cultural heritage and influences the lives of its people.

Through its comprehensive analysis, "Heritage and Religion in East Asia" enriches our understanding of the impact of heritage and religious culture in modern society. It is a valuable resource for academics and students working in heritage studies, anthropology, religion, and East Asian studies, offering insights into the complex interplay between cultural heritage and religious traditions in the region.

Weight: 480g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367688110