Shinto in North Alabama
Shinto, the Way of the Kami, is the indigenous spiritual tradition of Japan. It honors the kami, sacred spirits found in mountains, rivers, trees, ancestors and the forces of nature, and it has no founder or single scripture. Shrines and cultural associations in North America keep Shinto customs alive, and NAWD is ready to list any shrine or cultural association in North Alabama.
Purity, gratitude and harmony
Shinto emphasizes purity, sincerity and harmony with nature and community. Rituals of purification, such as washing the hands and mouth at the shrine entrance, prepare worshippers to approach the kami with gratitude. Many Japanese families also practice Buddhism, and the two traditions have long lived side by side.
Shrines and customs
A shrine, or jinja, is marked by a torii gate. Visitors bow at the gate, purify at the water basin, make an offering, bow twice, clap twice and bow once more in prayer. Charms, or omamori, and wooden prayer tablets called ema are common. Priests lead seasonal rituals, and local festivals, called matsuri, bring communities together.
Festivals
Oshogatsu, the new year, is the most important season. Setsubun in February, Shichi-Go-San for children and autumn harvest festivals are also widely observed.
Visiting
Visitors are welcome at shrines and cultural events. Be respectful, follow the customs posted at the entrance and ask before taking photographs.