Unlike monotheistic religions, which believe in a specific god or sacred text, Japanese religious viewsare strongly characterized by a“polytheistic”nature,in which Shinto (the worship of nature) and Buddhism (the worship of ancestors) coexist and intertwine.
While about 60% to 70% of people identify as “non-religious,”religious rituals are deeply ingrained in daily life—such as visiting shrines during New Year’s, attending funerals at temples, and holding weddings at churches—and the mindset of being “non-religious” is considered an essential part of Japanese culture.
- Syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism and Polytheism: Shinto (the belief in eight million gods) and Buddhism (ancestor veneration) are not distinguished from one another but coexist within the same daily life.
- The “Non-Religious” Belief: According to an NHK survey, approximately 62% of respondents stated they do not follow a religion, and many do not belong to any specific religious organization.
- Religion as Culture: There is a strong tendency to view religion not as religious doctrine, but rather as “customs” or “culture” associated with life events such as weddings and funerals.
- A Sense of “Layering ”: Elements of different religions—such as Shinto deities and Buddhist deities—are seamlessly layered and accepted within daily life without any sense of incongruity (e.g., a Shinto altar and a Buddhist altar coexisting in the same home).
- Flexibility: As the saying “Even a sardine’s head is a matter of faith” suggests, people place greater importance on a “believing heart” and respect for deities and Buddhas than on specific religious organizations.
- Rooted in Daily Life: Although people are increasingly distancing themselves from religion, practices such as visiting family graves and paying respects at shrines continue to function as part of daily life.
The Japanese view of religion can be described as a comprehensive spiritual framework that values not so much belief in a specific deity, but rather a sensitivity toward invisible forces and reverence for ancestors, as well as the importance of “auspiciousness” and “customs” at significant life milestones.
