Many Japanese people claim that they are not particularly religious. Yet, every New Year, millions flock to shrines and temples for hatsumode (the first shrine visit of the year). From an outsider’s perspective, this might seem like a contradiction, or even a sign of deep religious devotion. But what is really behind this custom?

The answer lies in the uniquely Japanese religious worldview, encapsulated in the concept of Yaoyorozu no Kami.

What is Yaoyorozu no Kami?
The term Yaoyorozu no Kami refers to the belief in “eight million gods,” though in this context, “eight million” is simply a way of expressing an innumerable quantity. Essentially, it reflects the idea that gods exist everywhere in nature—mountains, rivers, the wind, the rain, even everyday household items.

This belief is flexible and deeply embedded in daily life. For example, many Japanese people feel a sense of calm when visiting a shrine, not because they necessarily believe in one specific god, but because of the long-standing cultural belief that the natural world is imbued with divine spirits.

Is Hatsumode Cultural or Religious?
So what about hatsumode? For most Japanese, hatsumode is a chance to celebrate the start of the New Year and pray for safety, happiness, and success. However, this doesn’t necessarily stem from a strong religious belief. Instead, hatsumode is more of a cultural and traditional event that people naturally participate in.

When you visit a shrine during hatsumode, you’ll see people praying for the upcoming year, making offerings, and buying lucky charms. This might look like religious devotion from the outside, but for many, it’s simply part of the New Year’s tradition, deeply woven into the fabric of Japanese life.

How Does the World View Japanese Religious Practices?
From the perspective of monotheistic religions, Japanese customs like visiting shrines may seem like an expression of strong faith. For example, in Christianity or Islam, attending church or a mosque is often seen as a significant act of religious devotion. So, when non-Japanese observe large numbers of people visiting shrines, they may assume that the Japanese are deeply religious.

However, in Japan, hatsumode is more about honoring traditions and celebrating with loved ones than about religious devotion. The practice of praying at a shrine is simply part of living in harmony with the gods of Yaoyorozu no Kami.

Living with Yaoyorozu no Kami
The concept of Yaoyorozu no Kami also explains why Japanese people often don’t see a contradiction in blending different religious practices. In Japan, it’s common to find elements of Shinto, Buddhism, and even Christianity coexisting. For instance, you might visit a shrine for hatsumode, have a Buddhist funeral, and celebrate a Christian-style wedding.

This openness to various religious practices reflects the idea that gods are everywhere, and religious belief doesn’t need to be exclusive. Japanese people may not be committed to one particular religion, but their lives are deeply connected to the spiritual world around them.

Why Do Japanese People Say They Aren’t Religious Yet Visit Shrines Every Year?
In conclusion, Japanese people might say they are not religious because their understanding of religion differs from the more rigid frameworks of monotheistic faiths. However, this doesn’t mean they lack a sense of spirituality. The belief in Yaoyorozu no Kami is a deeply ingrained cultural mindset that allows people to engage with gods and spiritual beings in a flexible, natural way.

So the next time you visit a shrine for hatsumode, remember the concept of Yaoyorozu no Kami. It may deepen your appreciation of the shrine visit and help you understand its significance on a new level.

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