A deep-dive blog where a local Japanese writer from Osaka answers foreigners’ “Why?” about Japan

Shinto

Tag: Shinto

  • Heitate Jingu Shrine: “Hidden Shrine” at the Navel of Kyushu

    Heitate Jingu Shrine: “Hidden Shrine” at the Navel of Kyushu

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    LikeTime travel to ancient Japan 15,000 years ago You might’ve read about Japan’s top five power spots for healing and energy.But tucked away in the mountains on the border of Kumamoto and Miyazaki prefectures is a very old and mysterious shrine that makes you wonder, “Why is this in such a remote place with nobody…

  • A mystical journey to Kumano Kodo: A pilgrimage to “revive” the soul

    A mystical journey to Kumano Kodo: A pilgrimage to “revive” the soul

    LikeA journey to the “realm of the gods” you’ll never forget In 2020, when the world was shrouded in silence, I (the author) ventured deep into the Kii Mountains.It was an ancient path where lush trees obscured the sky and the humid air enveloped my skin. With every step, the clamor of the outside world…

  • The Mysticism of Shugendo that Remains in Modern Japan

    The Mysticism of Shugendo that Remains in Modern Japan

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    LikeThe secret of the soul embraced by the mountains, known only to the Japanese Deep within the hearts of the Japanese people lies a profound reverence for mountains that dates back to ancient times.When we gaze upon the majestic Mount Fuji or feel drawn to the mountain ranges of Kii, we sense a sacred power…

  • Miyajima, a World Heritage Site: A Tale Woven by a Sanctuary Floating on the Sea

    Miyajima, a World Heritage Site: A Tale Woven by a Sanctuary Floating on the Sea

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    LikeA Floating Sanctuary on the Sea: An Overture of Awe When you stand before Itsukushima Shrine or the Great Torii Gate bathed in the morning sun, you might not only be captivated by their beauty but also feel a sense of indescribable awe.This feeling might arise from touching a scene so solemn that it’s disconnected…

  • Japan, the Volcanic Archipelago: A Grand Story of Awe and Blessings

    Japan, the Volcanic Archipelago: A Grand Story of Awe and Blessings

    LikeThe Stage of “Life” Woven by Fire and Water The Japanese archipelago is a volcanic country situated on the Pacific Ring of Fire, one of the world’s most active volcanic belts.This geological characteristic not only shaped Japan’s landscape but also spun a narrative deeply rooted in the spiritual world, history, culture, and daily lives of…

  • Japanese Festivals: Matsuri Continuing from Ancient Times

    Japanese Festivals: Matsuri Continuing from Ancient Times

    LikeJapan’s Top 5 Festivals: Gion Matsuri, Tenjin Matsuri, Kanda Matsuri, plus Nebuta Matsuri and Danjiri Matsuri To truly touch the essence of Japanese culture is to experience its traditional celebrations, known as “matsuri.”Vibrant and lively, these festivals are more than mere events; they are mirrors reflecting Japan’s rich history, spirituality, and the bonds of its…

  • An Invitation to Kadō: The Japanese Art of Flower Arranging

    An Invitation to Kadō: The Japanese Art of Flower Arranging

    LikeDelving into the Profound World of Arranging Flowers To Western readers, the term “Ikebana” might be familiar as a delicate facet of Japanese culture.However, the profound spirituality and philosophy of Kadō as a “Way” or “Path,” hidden beneath its superficial beauty, may not yet be fully appreciated.Kadō transcends the mere technique of beautifully arranging flowers…

  • World Heritage in Japan: The Mysteriously Veiled “Island Where Gods Dwell”

    World Heritage in Japan: The Mysteriously Veiled “Island Where Gods Dwell”

    LikeThe Spirit of Japan’s Sacred Sites: Okinoshima Japan has a long history of revering nature as sacred and strictly limiting access to certain places.For instance, the Nintoku Tenno Ryo Kofun (tomb of Emperor Nintoku), managed by the Imperial Household Agency, is a site of immense scale where entry to the burial mound itself is forbidden.While…

  • What Is the Nihon Shoki and Why Is It Important Today?

    What Is the Nihon Shoki and Why Is It Important Today?

    LikeDiscover how the Nihon Shoki shaped Japan’s mythology, politics, and identity. When we introduce Shinto shrines and the Shinto religion in Japan, we inevitably touch upon their origins and the deities enshrined within them.This naturally leads us to discuss ancient texts like the Nihon Shoki and the Kojiki.However, these books contain unique Japanese historical perspectives…

  • What Are the Different Types of Shinto Shrines and Their Historical Ranks?

    What Are the Different Types of Shinto Shrines and Their Historical Ranks?

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    LikeA Comprehensive Guide of the Differences of Jingū, Taisha, and Tenmangū For people outside of Japan, it’s common to think that there’s only one type of Shinto shrine.But in reality, there are various kinds of shrines!If you’re planning to travel to Japan and visit shrines, understanding the different types will deepen your understanding of the…

  • What Is Shinto? Exploring Its History, Spirituality, and Mystique

    What Is Shinto? Exploring Its History, Spirituality, and Mystique

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    LikeThe Ancient Path Shrouded in Mystery Shinto, the indigenous faith deeply rooted in the culture and spirituality of Japan.This blog post shines a light on its long history, unique spirituality, and mystical allure, inviting readers on a profound journey into the world of Shinto.Discover a world where gods are found in nature, ancestors are revered,…

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Takeshi.K

A creator sharing the beauty of Japan with the world. I run a design firm and SHIBUMIWORKS, an apparel brand featuring Japanese traditional patterns and kanji. This blog explores Japanese culture, food, history, and travel.

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