Abstract: As one of the most influential figures in modern history of Japanese thoughts, Watsuji Tetsuro(1889-1960) received extensive attention in academical circlerecently. The article focuses on his conversion to the Orient from the perspective of Buddhism arts. Besides the external stimulus including his personal character and experiences, the cultural thoughts extended from the Buddhism arts in the context of current thoughts has the internal meaning. By analyzing Wastuji’s change of thoughts during the pilgrim’s journey in Nara, the article makes an attempt to study how the Buddhism elements moved him from the west research to the orient history and culture decisively.

Key words: Watsuji Tetsuro, Buddhism arts, conversion, the Orient