Constructed by Spencer P Howard

 Shinto is a mostly Japanese religion.  It is also Japan’s oldest recorded religion.  The word Shinto itself means “the way of the gods” (Shen – gods and Tao – way) according to the Japanese people. Japan

 Shinto was divided into three different forms around 1900 A.D. 1) Jinja: The largest group of Shinto. It is the original form of the religion. Jinja is formulated around shrines. 2) Kyoha: Consists of thirteen sects. They were founded by individuals since the early 19 th century. 3) Folk Shinto: Isn't actually a sect of Shinto, but is seen in local practices and rituals.

 There is no all powerful deity affiliated with Shinto.  Shinto centers itself around kami or spirit. The kami are the powers of nature. They are associated with mountains, animals, trees, springs, the sun and boulders. They also include souls of the dead and early Japanese ancestors.

 No one actually knows when Shinto was created.  Documents suggest that it was created around 500 B.C. or earlier.

 There are no actual leaders of Shinto.  Shinto is based upon kami and those are what are worshiped.  The kami would be the “leaders” if there were any to be recognized at all.

 Shinto’s population ranges within three countries.  Canada:.1% of country (33,487)  South Korea:.1% of country (48,509)  Japan:83.9% of country (106,619,012)

 There are estimated to be around 4 million followers of Shinto itself.  Many stick Shinto and Buddhism together and place their followers in the same categories.  Shinto and Buddhism account for over 80% of Japans religion.  Those who do not practice Shinto in Japan although commonly have Shinto shrines in their homes.

      