New Contributions to Research on Vietnam - China Cultural Exchange from An Interdisciplinary Approach

Abstract

 Japanese Zen Buddhism was introduced to America at the end of the nineteenth century and soon became a religious and cultural phenomenon that attracted considerable public interest in the country. Although numerous studies have examined the impact of Japanese Zen Buddhism in America, these studies have primarily approached the topic from religious or cultural perspectives. This paper approaches the subject from a new angle, namely that of cultural diplomacy. By combining various qualitative research methods, the study aims to clarify the role of Japanese Zen Buddhism as a diplomatic medium for introducing and promoting Japanese culture and the image of the Japanese people in America. The results of this paper show that the influence of Japanese Zen Buddhism in America has mainly taken place at the people-to-people level, with the primary contributions coming from individuals such as Zen masters, scholars, and artists, including both Japanese and American actors. However, this process has also received indirect support from the Japanese government, particularly through the sponsorship of some Zen-related cultural and artistic exchange events in America. In general, the specific influences of Japanese Zen Buddhism on various aspects of American society, such as lifestyles, literary and artistic production, social movements, and academic research, have contributed to shaping a positive image of Japan and enhancing its soft power in America. On this basis, the study further analyzed the advantages and obstacles that Japan faces in promoting Zen Buddhism in America, and proposed several scenarios regarding the future development of Japanese Zen Buddhism in this country over the next two decades.