The Cultural Awards for the Promotion of Buddhism (BUNKA-SHO)
The Numata Innovation & Visionary Award (SHOREI-SHO)

These two BDK awards have been established to recognize those who have contributed to the promotion of Buddhism and Buddhist culture through their various national and international activities.

The awardees shall be selected from the following categories:

a) The Cultural Award for the Promotion of Buddhism

1. 1.Research, thesis, literary work, translation, field investigation,
2. Literary arts, arts, music, critique, etc.
3. 3.Missionary work, practice of the Dharma, etc.

Commencing with nominations for the 46th BUKKYO DENDO BUNKA-SHO, we have reorganized the basic award qualifications and removed the three categories for the cultural award. The new basic purpose of this award has been redefined to recognize individuals or organizations which have made significant contributions over an extended period of time in the promotion of the Buddhist spirit, culture and research.

b) Numata Innovation & Visionary Award

Additionally, BDK has initiated a new award to be called the Numata Innovation & Visionary Award which will be presented to an up and coming Buddhist leader, cleric or visionary who has shown innovation and promise in the promotion of the spirit of Buddhism.

Selection Process

An independent selection committee appointed by Bukkyo Dendo Kyokai annually selects individuals or organizations to receive these awards through recommendations and information submitted by Buddhist schools, academic institutions, scholars, researchers, and media.

Award Presentation

The Cultural Awards for the Promotion of Buddhism

（BUNKA-SHO）JPY 5,000,000.

The Numata Innovation & Visionary Award

（SHOREI-SHO）JPY 3,000,000.
※ If two people are selected, the monetary prize will be divided in half and each recipient will receive JPY 1,500,000.

Past Awardees(PDF)