SHINTO
Shinto is the oldest religion in Japan. It has no scripture, and is centered on the worship of nature.
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The name Shinto is derived from two words: ‘shin,’ meaning kami or gods; and ‘to,’ or do, meaning path. Therefore, Shinto means “the kami way,” or the “way of the gods.”
Shinto by Asian Art Museum
In Shinto, they believe in the kami – the gods that are found in nature. In Japanese history, important people and heroes are also worshiped as kami.
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They have no recognized sacred text. However, Kohiki and Nihongi are important collections of ritual prayers to the kami.
Main divisions in Shinto
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Jinja Shinto – this is the conventional Shinto worship in government-registered shrines.
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Kyoha Shinto – groups and sects that are not affiliated with government-recognized shrines.
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Tsuzoku Shinto – Shinto groups and practices that are mostly localized in scope.
Major kami:
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Amaterasu-o-mikami, Sun Goddess
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Ameno-minaka-nushi-no-kami, Kami of the Center of Heaven
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Takamimusubi-no-mikoto, Kami of Birth
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Izanagi-no-mikoto and Izanami-no-mikoto, Parents of the Eight Islands and other kami
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Susano-o-no-mikoto Heaven, Kami of the High Plain of Heaven
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Tsukiyomi-no-mikoto, Moon Goddess
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Okuninushi-no-kami, Kami of Izumo
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Ninigi-no-mikoto, Ruler of Japan
Types of worship:
Norito – public worship
Harai – purification
Shinsen – offering
Naorai – symbolic feast
 Kami refers to Shinto gods found in nature. |  The Grand Shrine of Ise in Nara Prefecture is designated as the highest Shinto temple. |
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 Shinto is nature-centric and is translated as "the way of the gods." |  A torii is mostly seen at the entrance of temples, however, they also signify praising and dedication to the nature gods. |
 Japanese shinsen offerings is one of the most common and important rites in a Shinto temple. |  Shinto emphasizes the relationship of man and nature. |