Japanese Religion

Shinto Shinto means ‘Way of the Gods’ It is still followed in Japan today. It is based on a series of traditions and customs, which usually involve pilgrimages to famous places and shrines.

Kami The most important spirits in Shinto are kami which mean ‘above’ or ‘superior.’ The kami are not gods but could be mountains, rivers, rocks, streams, or ancestors, any object or person who inspires awe. Shinto often brings about a deep love for nature.

Buddhism Buddhism came to Japan from China via Korea during the late Yamato period. Buddhism believed that people could continue to exist in an afterlife It is a path of practice and spiritual development leading to insight of the true nature of reality. Buddhist often practice meditation as a means of changing yourself in order to develop the qualities of awareness, kindness and wisdom.

Ema Prayer Boards Ema are small wooden boards on which Shinto worshippers write their prayers or wishes. The ema are left hanging up at the shrine, where the kami receive them. They bear various pictures often of animals or other shinto imagery.

Ema Ema are sold in Japan for various wishes. Common reasons for buying a plaque are for success in work or on exams, marital happiness, to have children and health.