This contributed volume investigates the non-Western understanding of happiness under the influence of various religions such as Buddhism, Confucianism, Shinto, and Christianity against Western thought on happiness. The chapters help clarify the particular characteristics of the concept of happiness that are unique to modern Japan. This book also reveals the regional deviations and historical determinants of the concept of happiness. The chapter authors represent an international collaboration, and thus open up new horizons for the study of the concept of happiness. This volume appeals to researchers and students working in these fields.