Shinto has deeply rooted itself in the lives of Japanese people, yet many may not consciously “feel” its presence. This is because Shinto has naturally blended into our “way of life,” becoming an integral part of daily routines.

For example, practices like the first shrine visit of the year (Hatsumode), ground-breaking ceremonies (Jichinsai), and seasonal rituals are all derived from Shinto. However, most people perceive these not as “religious acts,” but as “part of life.” This unique aspect of Shinto in Japan reveals how profoundly it influences our “way of life.”

Shinto does not confine itself to specific doctrines or commandments but emphasizes the importance of reverence for nature and ancestors. Our sense of awe towards natural disasters is rooted in the belief that countless deities reside within nature, a fundamental concept of Shinto. Additionally, living in tune with the seasons, valuing harmony with others, respecting ancestors, and cherishing family—these are all based on Shinto values.

However, because these Shinto values are so seamlessly integrated into daily life, we often forget their religious significance. This is a characteristic of Shinto’s deep integration into our way of living. Particularly among the younger generation, these practices are sometimes regarded merely as “tradition” or “custom,” making it harder to perceive the essence of Shinto.

It’s essential to recognize that many things we do unconsciously in our daily lives are deeply connected to Shinto. For example, when performing a ground-breaking ceremony for a new house or participating in seasonal rituals, these are not just events; they are opportunities to feel our connection to nature and our ancestors.

So, how can we rediscover Shinto? It starts with being mindful of how our daily actions and habits are connected to Shinto. For instance, when going to the shrine with your family for the first visit of the year, it could be meaningful to reflect on the Shinto teachings behind this tradition with your children. By doing so, we can reaffirm the deep meanings within Shinto and better understand it as a part of the Japanese “way of life.”

In this way, Shinto naturally blends into our lives and unconsciously influences our values and behaviors. It functions not just as a religion but as a “way of life.” By recognizing this and feeling Shinto’s presence in our daily lives, we can reassess its role in modern times and gain a new perspective on Japanese identity.

Through this post, I hope more people can rediscover the value of Shinto and feel its presence in their daily lives. Please share this idea widely. Explore how Shinto influences your own life—it might open up a new perspective on our future.