
Shinto beliefs
Shinto is Japan’s indigenous spiritual tradition centered on reverence for kami, which are spirits or gods found in nature, ancestors, and sacred objects. It emphasizes harmony with nature, purity, and respect for tradition. Practices include rituals, offerings, and festivals to honor kami and seek their blessings for health, prosperity, and protection. Shinto does not have a founder or strict doctrine, focusing instead on community-based worship and maintaining a spiritual connection with the natural world. It coexists peacefully with other religions and is deeply woven into Japanese culture and identity.