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“The Onmyodo” (Yin-Yang Philosophy of Japan) has recently been the focus of much recent attention in the Japanese media. However, its content has not been widely understood. Even though “the Onmyoryo” (The government organization of ancient Japan) has a 1,200 year history, the existence of this movement has not been publicized.
I study the progression of the Yin-Yang Philosophy of Japan; how the Yin-Yang Philosophy of Japan changed over time based on the Onmyoryo. I discuss the unique development of the Yin-Yang Philosophy of Japan from its creation in Japan based on the history of the original Yin-Yang Philosophy. I also discuss how the growth of the Onmyoryo, in turn, has affected Japanese culture.
I define the Onmyodo as the Yin-Yang Philosophy as it has been adapted to Japanese norms. The Onmyodo is recognized as a religious sect in Japan; however, it is perceived as a philosophy in its birth place － China. The reason that the Onmyodo is considered as a religious institution in Japan is due to its historical role as one of two main pillars of Japanese government (Choutei) at the time of its introduction, along with the previously established state religion of Shinto, however, I mentioned this point just for the reference.
In my thesis, I explore the development of the Onmyodo in a Japanese context and interaction with Japanese society, and its role in the creation of unique Japanese cultural identity. I expect to demonstrate the significance of the Yin-Yang system in the establishment of an awareness of a distinct ‘Japanese’ national identity and culture.
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