Shinto 神道 (way of Kami) is often understood more as a cultural tradition and way of life than as a formal religion. It is a way of living that encourages respect and gratitude toward the spirits of nature and one’s ancestors, while seeking harmony with the world around us.

Through Matsuri (ceremonies and services), people learn to express respect and gratitude to the Kami and ancestors, and to live in harmony with them.

Shinto is different from many other religions. It does not have a mentor or guru who teaches a specific method, as some religions do. In Shinto, there is also no single founder.

Instead, it is more about you finding your own way of living and practicing that lifestyle. Similar to 茶道 (Sadō: the way of tea / tea ceremony), 剣道 (Kendō: the way of the sword), and 柔道 (Jūdō: the way of gentleness or flexibility), which each have some 型 (kata), etiquette, methods, and rules. 神道 (Shinto) also has certain kata and methods. However, these rules come from ways of showing respect that were developed by Japanese people in ancient times. (Shinto is said to have existed for over 2600 years!)

By attending our ceremonies, you will begin to understand Shinto.

To learn more about the basic ideas of Shinto, we have a public YouTube playlist available. In addition, we hold a Closing Talk after most of our online Omatsuri (YouTube livestreams). While the Omatsuri themselves are open to the public, the Closing Talks are available only to shrine members.

Because we do not yet have a Shrine building, we are currently holding a fundraiser to reestablish a Shinto shrine in California! Until then, there are only a few rare occasions during the year when people can join in-person ceremonies and events.

In addition, we have an English/Japanese children’s book that explains Shinto for beginners (even adults), and we also have a milestone album that is a good source for learning about Shinto and Japanese culture.