Religion in Japan
Shinto and Buddhism are Japan’s two major religions. There are also followers of Confucius, Christianity and Islam living in Japan.
Shinto
Shinto is as old as the Japanese culture. Shinto gods are called kami. They are sacred spirits which take the form of things, such as wind, rain, mountains, trees and rivers.
The followers of Shinto believe the people are fundamentally good. They believe that evil is caused by evil spirits so most Shinto rituals are used to keep away evil spirits by praying to kami and giving them offerings. The Shinto priests perform the rituals.
Shinto is as old as the Japanese culture. Shinto gods are called kami. They are sacred spirits which take the form of things, such as wind, rain, mountains, trees and rivers.
The followers of Shinto believe the people are fundamentally good. They believe that evil is caused by evil spirits so most Shinto rituals are used to keep away evil spirits by praying to kami and giving them offerings. The Shinto priests perform the rituals.
Torii gates mark the entrance to a shrine.
People visit the shrines to pray for good fortune. They also visit the shrines during special occasions such as weddings, New year and Shichi-go-san.
Buddhism
Buddhism originated in India in the 6th century. Buddhism came to Japan via China and Korea.
Buddhism originated in India in the 6th century. Buddhism came to Japan via China and Korea.
These are photos of shrines and temples from around the country:
Confucianism
Here are some pictures of the Nagasaki Confucius Shrine which were taken during the Nagasaki Lantern Festival.
http://visit-nagasaki.com/spots/detail/92
http://visit-nagasaki.com/spots/detail/92
Christianity
Islam