Shinto

Most recent stories in Shinto

• Explore the story of Izanami and Izanagi, the male and female deities tasked with creating the islands of Japan.

  

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  Japanese Mythology: Izanami and Izanagi

  learnreligions.com - McKenzie Perkins

  Every Japanese emperor and empress in the long line of familial succession can trace their ancestry and divine right to rule directly to the deities …

• Christianity never gained a strong following in Japan because of the nature of monotheism, a stark contrast to traditional Japanese culture and beliefs.

  

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  Religion in Japan: History and Statistics

  learnreligions.com - McKenzie Perkins

  Shinto and Buddhism are the dominant religions in Japan. Notably, the estimated population of each religion is almost identical: approximately 70.4% …

• There are at least 80,000 public Shinto shrines in Japan.

  

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  10 of the Most Important Shinto Shrines

  learnreligions.com - McKenzie Perkins

  Shinto is the oldest indigenous religion in Japanese history, a fact that is made evident by the sheer number of Shinto shrines throughout the …

• The Maneki-neko, or Beckoning Cat, is a one of the most popular Japanese engimono, lucky charms meant to bring good fortune according to Japanese folklore and Buddhist and Shinto traditions.

  

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  Understanding Engimono: Japanese Lucky Charms

  learnreligions.com - McKenzie Perkins

  Engimono are traditional Japanese lucky charms, often decorated with bright colors and designs, that signify different kinds of luck (e.g. marriage …

• Shinto has no holy deity, no sacred text, no founding figures, and no central doctrine. Learn about the religion and its practices, including the worship of kami.

  

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  Shinto Worship: Traditions and Practices

  learnreligions.com - McKenzie Perkins

  Shinto (meaning the way of the gods) is the oldest indigenous system of belief in Japanese history. Its beliefs and rituals are practiced by more …

• The design of individual shrines can vary, but there are a few important elements present in most shrines. Learn about the importance of these sacred places and how to visit one.

  

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  What Is a Shinto Shrine?

  learnreligions.com - McKenzie Perkins

  Shinto shrines are structures built to house kami, the essence of spirit present in natural phenomena, objects, and human beings that is worshipped …