The world today is at a historical turning point. At this juncture, China, South Korea, Japan, and other countries need to propose to the world a paradigm for the new era. It appears that the spirit of harmony which is rooted in Japanese traditional culture contains various elements that can become part of this paradigm. In addition, world history has borne witness to numerous religious conflicts stemming from differences in religious doctrines. The spirit of religious tolerance of the Japanese people may serve as a model for religious life in the twenty-first century.