Takeshi Umehara wins the 2002 Goi Peace Award

The 2002 Goi Peace Award was presented to Japanese philosopher Professor Takeshi Umehara.

The annual Goi Peace Award is presented to honor individuals and organizations in various fields, that have made remarkable contributions to the advancement of world peace and humanity.

With his strong intuition and deep insight, Mr. Umehara has developed a unique and comprehensive study of Japanese culture known as "Umehara's Japanologie," transcending the disciplines of Japanese intellectual history, ancient studies, literature, religion and various other fields. His endless pursuit of truth, unimpeded by common belief and knowledge, has revealed ancient and lasting wisdom that will help guide humanity to a peaceful and harmonious future.

Born in 1925, Mr. Umehara is an honorary advisor to the International Research Center for Japanese Studies. He has also served as Professor at Ritsumeikan University and as President of Kyoto City University of Arts. He has written many books such as "The Hidden Cross" and "Takeshi Umehara's Lecture on Buddhism." He is also a recipient of the Order of Cultural Merit and other major literary awards.

Mr. Umehara received the Goi Peace Award at a ceremony held at Bunkyo Civic Hall in Tokyo on November 18, 2002.

Commemorative Address by Takeshi Umehara