Soka Gakkai International: The Global Expansion of a Japanese Buddhist Movement

Japan's Soka Gakkai is the largest of Japan's many New Religious Movements with a major presence not only in Japan, but also meaningful representation in nearly 200 foreign countries and territories. This Japan‐based Buddhist organization which in 2013 claims ten million members at home has attracted over two million followers abroad through its ability to assimilate into local cultures and to offer doctrines and practices that are universal in their application. Japanese as well as foreign members find Soka Gakkai's form of Buddhism appealing because it is said to give them a sense of confidence and self‐empowerment, permitting them to manage their lives in a more creative and fulfilling manner.