Imoto first thought of the idea after the temple's own cold water ablutions performed under a local waterfall, first opened to the public last summer, experienced a boom in popularity.

Many of about 500 people who had participated in the ritual were unemployed graduates and their parents. The young people were unsure of what their life's purpose was, or had lost confidence because they worried too much about what others thought of them.

The chief priest, also an entrepeneur, saw an opportunity to help and planned the seminar, aiming to help young people develop better self-awareness through job-hunting activities.

Due to begin Jan. 23, the seminar will last for about six months and meetings will be held fortnightly.

In addition to traditional Buddhism practices, such as cold water ablutions and Zen meditation, Imoto will offer lay sermons to encourage young people in their search for work.

Lectures on job-hunting, guest lectures by company managers, farming practices and the chance to engage in nursing care will make up the seminar's curriculum.

Imoto, who also runs a precious metal retail company, said: "Many young people try to get jobs at major companies because of the companies' brand and status. The students talk themselves up when taking job examinations and interviews, but their real nature is soon exposed.

"Unless they genuinely want this kind of work, they'll lack the enthusiasm to convince interviewers, 'This student can overcome any difficulty.' Our practice should provide opportunities for young people to find what it is they really want to do."

The temple hopes participants will take up the challenge for success in their job-hunting endeavors.

Course applications can be made at the temple's Web site:

http://www.syokoji.jp/form.html

via Yomiuri