The national religion of Japan, Shintoism (Shintoïsme), originated within the country over many generations, not imported from abroad. Initially, it centered on the worship of the Sun Goddess Amaterasu, representing the Sun, followed by the veneration of various deities, and later, the reverence of ancestors.
The Japanese believe in the existence of the soul and its continued existence after death.
In the 3rd century, influenced by Chinese culture and adopting Chinese characters to create their own writing system, the Japanese absorbed elements of Confucianism and Buddhism, which had spread to their country. However, their indigenous religion, Shintoism, remained prominent.
Following the religious reforms of 1868, the Sun Goddess Amaterasu was replaced by a concept of a Supreme Deity. Shinto rituals involve offerings of incense, tea, flowers, and fruits.
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