Nelson (theology and religious studies, University of San Francisco) explores tensions between Buddhist religious ideals and the sociocultural realities of contemporary Japanese society, describing new roles of Buddhist priests. The book begins with a chapter on the history and current characteristics of Buddhism in Japan, then surveys social-welfare policies and programs initiated by progressive Buddhist priests in Japan, drawing on the author's ethnographic fieldwork conducted at various temples in different regions. A framework of four prototypes of experimental Buddhism is defined. Annotation ©2014 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)