Shinto
(Way of the Gods)
Originating in the 8th century, Shinto is an ancient practice that focuses on rituals rather than religion. Shinto uses shrines and alters to communicate with invisible spirits and powers, called Kami. Kami are typically elements of nature, the spirits of ancient ancestors, spirits that occupy living beings, powerful natural forces, and are not viewed as the traditional western idea of gods. Kami are not viewed as having gods because it’s made up of millions of elements and does not focus on one individual being and are not omnipotent. These spirits can also have either good or evil connotations and can behave poorly such as the Kami that are powerful natural forces (earthquakes, hurricanes, tsunamis).
People who practice Shinto don’t necessarily think of it as a religion because it’s not omnipotent and doesn’t have a singular god who transcends. However, it’s viewed as a staple in Japanese culture as most people have shrines or tiny alters in their homes to pay homage to these invisible spirits.
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Shrines in studio ghibli
My neighbor totoro
In the films of Hayao Miyazaki, there are many Shinto shrines. In my Neighbor Totoro, Satsuki and Mei try to wait out the rain in one of shrines. Upon leaving they thank the spirits for letting them use their shelter.
Spirited away
In Spirited Away most of the film takes place in a Shinto shrine. This shrine is much larger compared to the simple ones people have at their homes. Also, before entering the spirit world, Chihiro walks by many small Kami houses used to house the spirits.
