Shinichiro Imaoka (1881-1988) was a living legend in Japan who influenced the development of progressive and liberal religion.

Shinichiro Imaoka lived so long and was involved in so many different phases of Japan's emergence in modern life that it was difficult to comprehend his contributions and impossible to compare him with others. At well over 100 years of age he was still healthy, vigorous, and actively influencing educators, progressive religionists, and the general public.

His parents were farmers and Shin Buddhists of Matsue. Born on September 16, 1881, he was named Nobuichiro Imaoka (an unusual rendering of the characters of his name). His signature as the last secretary for the Japan Unitarian Mission was "N. Imaoka." The pronunciation of his personal name was changed to Shinichiro (a more usual rendering) for the convenience of others.

Studying under the famous Professor Aneskai in the department of religious studies at Tokyo Imperial University...