Shrines in Japan are not only popular as spiritual or “power spots” but also hold a deep connection to Japanese culture that is often overlooked, even by those living in Japan. Many people visit shrines for events like New Year’s visits (hatsumode) without fully understanding the deities enshrined there. In this article, we’ll explore the concept of shrines, the various gods worshipped within them, and the cultural significance of shrines in Japan.
What Is a Shrine and Its Relationship with Japanese Culture?
The Concept of a Shrine
A shrine, or "jinja," is a place where deities from the Shinto religion, unique to Japan, are enshrined. With over 100,000 shrines across the country, their prevalence demonstrates how closely the Japanese people have historically felt connected to these deities.
The Typical Structure of a Shrine
Shrines typically feature several important structures. The entrance is marked by a torii gate, followed by a pathway (sando) that leads visitors to a purification fountain (temizuya) where they can cleanse their hands. The main building, known as the honden, is located at the innermost part of the shrine grounds. This is where the deities reside, and it is treated with utmost respect, remaining hidden from public view.
The Cultural Significance of Shrines in Japan
The primary reason why Japanese people visit shrines is to express gratitude to the deities for daily blessings. While not all visitors are adherents of Shinto, many come to shrines for traditional events and ceremonies such as:
- New Year’s visits (hatsumode)
- Weddings
- Shichi-go-san (children’s festivals)
Additionally, people pray for family safety, health, or success in exams. Shrines also serve as power spots, places believed to offer spiritual energy. In this way, shrines act as both the home of the gods and a spiritual haven for people, deeply rooted in Japanese culture.
The Diverse Gods Worshipped at Shrines
To better understand the connection between shrines and Japanese culture, let's look at the various types of gods worshipped in these sacred spaces.
Tenjin Chigi: Deities of Heaven and Earth
Tenjin Chigi refers to the "kunitukami" (earthly deities) and the "amatsukami" (heavenly deities). Notable examples include Okuninushi, the ruler of earthly deities, and Amaterasu, the sun goddess who leads the heavenly gods. Amaterasu is worshipped at the famous Ise Grand Shrine, which is considered one of the most important shrines in Japan.
Ancestral Deities of the Imperial Family and Clans
Amaterasu is also revered as the ancestral deity of the Japanese imperial family. Similarly, other famous ancestral deities include Amenokoyane, the ancestral god of the influential Fujiwara clan. Shrines like Heian Shrine (which honors Emperor Kanmu and Emperor Komei) and Usa Shrine (which enshrines Emperor Ojin) further reflect the connection between Japanese history, royalty, and religion.
Spirits of Great Historical Figures
Shrines often honor notable historical figures such as:
- Tokugawa Ieyasu
- Sakuma Shozan
- Admiral Togo Heihachiro
Not all great figures become deified, and there are no strict rules for who becomes a god. Typically, it depends on the shrine's founders or the era in which they lived.
Animals and Nature
Shrines often deify natural elements such as mountains, forests, waterfalls, and rocks. For example, the famous Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto is associated with mystical creatures called "kenshoku," often misidentified as foxes, which serve as divine messengers. Other mythical creatures, like dragons, are also revered as symbols of good fortune.
Foreign Deities
Japanese shrines are also known for accepting deities from abroad. Examples include Dakiniten from India, associated with Inari worship, and Gozu Tennō, a deity of foreign origin. Additionally, deities from Taoism and Onmyodo are sometimes enshrined, demonstrating the inclusivity of Japanese shrines and attracting visitors from diverse backgrounds.
Vengeful Spirits
In some cases, shrines are dedicated to vengeful spirits, a practice known as "goryo shinko." By enshrining these angry spirits, people hope to appease their wrath and avoid curses. Notable examples include Prince Sawara, who died unjustly, and Sugawara no Michizane, enshrined as the god of learning at Tenmangu shrines across Japan.
Conclusion
Shrines are not just places of worship for Shinto gods; they also enshrine ancestral spirits, deities from other cultures, and even vengeful spirits. They serve as important cultural and spiritual centers, where people come to offer prayers of gratitude or make wishes for health, safety, and success. With their deep connection to Japan's natural environment, shrines also offer peaceful, spiritual havens for visitors, making them ideal spots to explore both Japanese culture and nature. Why not start your journey by visiting a local shrine and discovering the fascinating relationship between shrines and Japanese culture?