Forms of Shinto

Shinto, also known as Kami-no-michi, is the primary religion practiced within Japan. Since its establishment around 500 BCE, or theoretically, earlier, this religion has changed its state of practice and following within Japan. As the country has developed, so has its religion. At this point in time, there are three primary forms, or versions, of Shinto that are historically recognized: folk Shinto, shrine Shinto, and state Shinto.

A Festival on the Inland Sea, being completed by Islanders
themselves
(Source: Green Shinto)

Folk Shinto is known as the form focused on the individual, rather than the preferences of the entire population of Japan. In this form of Shinto, rural communities and groups are given the chance to show their own preference to a certain form of kami that appeals to them, and reflects that particular individual and/or groups preference in terms of mixing Buddhism and Shinto. Examples of this form of Shinto can be seen in things such as small images on the side of the road, an agricultural festival practiced by a certain family or families, and the worship of their local 'deity,' such as the Hachiman, the god of War, or Inari Okami, the god of agriculture and rice.

Shrine Shinto is one of, if not, the most common form(s) of Shinto that can be observed through out the country of Japan. It is represented by the many shrines that are scattered through out Japan. Dating back to the pre-history of Japan, shrine Shinto was once closely associated with state Shinto, and involved worshipping the Emperor of Japan as a living god. However, as Shinto has developed, shrine Shinto has become more about its followers, emphasizing purification, harmony with nature, and offering blessings for good fortune and health within its followers lives.

Lastly, state Shinto focuses on the state of the Emperor of Japan, and focuses on their state as the symbol of their country and the unity of its people. Dating back to the 1800s, state Shinto greatly biased and ridiculed other religions, such as Christianity and Buddhism, and was hailed as the state religion in an attempt to promote nationalism and patriotism within its people. After the end of World War II, state Shinto was seemingly disbanded, but is still practiced today. As mentioned above, shrine Shinto was closely associated with state Shinto for a time, but the two have separated themselves from each other.

Another section, or form, of Shinto that is not noted as a primary section is sectarian Shinto. While it is not thought of as a major form of Shinto, it still involves many Shinto practices. At its root, sectarian Shinto involved the creation of 13 sects, or groups of followers, around the beginning of the 19th century. Since this time, there have been many other sects that have been created. Each sect has its own rituals, and follow their own chosen 'deity,' or form of kami. Others may follow a form of almost monotheistic practice, or following strictly one god and one god alone.