Shinto shrines are everywhere throughout Japan, it’s estimated there are over 80,000 (Wikipedia) shrines across the country. Shinto means “the way of the kami” and is more a way of life than a specific set of beliefs. There are no preachers spreading Shintoism and there is no holy text such as the Bible or Quran.
Kami is a very complex concept but an oversimplified explanation is “spiritual energy that is connected to all things; people, animals, nature & objects”. If you have ever watched Tidying Up with Marie Kondo on Netflix the belief that all things have kami is one of the reasons she thanks each item before throwing it away.
Japanese visit shrines to pray for a whole lot of reasons; to pass an exam, for good luck in business, to bless a new car or to ward off evil spirits. There is no single god they are praying to but instead praying to the kami. The rituals and the discipline behind Shintoism is the most important part of the religion.
Shinto is deeply engrained in the Japanese way of life. Local shinto shrines are at the heart of communities, bringing people together through seasonal festivals and binding the country as one during the New Year celebrations.
Your Own Shinto Experience
If you want to understand Japan and the Japanese way of life one of the best ways is to learn through Shintoism. Visit Akashi, a non-profit organization in Akashi city, Hyogo, have started a Shinto experience that allows you to explore the relationship between Japan and Shintoism at the local Iwaya Shrine.
This rare experience allows you to speak directly to the shrines head priest, who is very open and takes time explaining the etiquette for a shrine visit. Starting at the purification fountain found at the entrance, the priest will explain the correct procedures for washing your hands. He will then guide you to the shrine and show you how to ring the bell, clap and bow to awaken the kami so you can pray and be heard.
When you visit most shrines in Japan you can only view them from the outside, however this experience allows you to to get a unique behind-the-scenes look of Iwaya Shrine and learn about the history of the shrine and its special summer festival which takes place in the bay. The priest will then perform a purification ritual to ward off any evil spirits.
The guides and priest are very accommodating and allow you to take photos and ask any questions. This is an amazing opportunity to get insights into the workings of a Shinto shrine and how it is deeply connected to the origins of Japan and the Japanese way of life.
To sign up tp this experience head over to the
Visit Akashi website.
