Mainstream Shinto
Mainstream Shinto — Japan's indigenous religion of kami veneration through shrines and seasonal festivals — is a low-CLCI reference point. State Shinto's wartime instrumentalisation (1868–1945) is a separate historical phenomenon.
CLCI radar
BITE breakdown
0 — Japanese indigenous religion; low control. State Shinto (1868–1945) was politically weaponised but is historical.
In context
Shinto centres on kami veneration through shrines, seasonal festivals, and rites of passage. Adherence is overwhelmingly cultural rather than confessional; many Japanese practise both Shinto rites and Buddhist funerals without exclusivity. Specific sectarian Shinto offshoots (Tenrikyo, Oomoto-kyo, others) sit somewhat higher and would be separate entries if rated.
Key control doctrines
- Kami veneration
- Ritual purification (harae)
- Seasonal festivals (matsuri)
Timeline
- AncientIndigenous Japanese religious practice
- 1868–1945State Shinto period (politically weaponised)
Sources
- Helen Hardacre, 'Shinto: A History' (2017)
We cite sources by name and outlet rather than fabricating links. Search the source title plus the group name to find the original.