Shinto

Shinto is the indigenous religion of Japan, centered around the belief in kami, which are spirits or deities associated with natural elements, ancestors, and sacred places. It emphasizes rituals and practices that honor these kami, seeking harmony between humans and nature. Shinto has no central scripture or founder and is deeply interwoven with Japanese culture and identity. Shrines, known as jinja, play a significant role, serving as places for worship and festivals. Shinto focuses on purity, community, and the celebration of seasonal changes, reflecting a profound respect for the environment and the spiritual forces that inhabit it.