Shinto (religious practice)

Shinto is Japan’s indigenous spiritual tradition centered on honoring kami, which are sacred spirits or nature gods believed to reside in natural objects, places, and ancestors. Practitioners engage in rituals, offerings, and festivals at shrines to foster harmony with kami, promote good fortune, and purify oneself from impurity. Shinto emphasizes reverence for nature, community, and tradition without strict dogma or moral codes. It is integrated into daily life and Japanese culture, serving as a spiritual foundation for respecting nature, celebrating seasonal events, and seeking blessings for health, success, and harmony.