Two of the main characteristics of Rissho Kosei-kai are the following.

First, Rissho Kosei-kai is a Buddhist organization in direct line of descent from Shakyamuni Buddha, who was born in India (present-day Nepal) more than twenty-five hundred years ago where he engaged in a teaching ministry. He left us many teachings and methods for attaining buddhahood, which have been handed down to us today from one distinguished Buddhist priest to another. It is true that Rissho Kosei-kai has a high regard for such noted priests as T'ien-tai, Nichiren, and others because of their superb achievements, but we directly trace our lineage of the Dharma to Shakyamuni Buddha. That is because in the spirit and teaching of Shakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism, Rev. Nikkyo Niwano discerned the principle of peace and liberation and established Rissho Kosei-kai on that basis. Therefore, stated briefly, Rissho Kosei-kai descends directly from Shakyamuni Buddha.

Second, Rissho Kosei-kai emphasizes the practical application of the teachings. However worthy doctrines may be intrinsically, they are of little value until they are put into practice in our daily lives. Buddhism is not a fossil, a dry subject for academic study. It is a vigorous religion for active human beings. Members of Rissho Kosei-kai, with faith in the Buddha, apply his teachings in their daily lives, although they are not ordained monks or nuns but are involved in every walk of life and in all professions, including that of homemaker. Leading an ordinary life as citizens, they recite the sutra mornings and evenings, strive to learn the teachings at local churches through hoza counseling sessions and doctrinal lectures, as well as significant events and ceremonies, and guide other people to the faith by sharing the teachings and their experiences. In short, Rissho Kosei-kai is an organization of lay people who strive to apply the Buddha's teachings in their everyday lives.