The city of Kyoto is known as Japan's cultural and spiritual capital. It's for good reason: Kyoto has hundreds of Buddhist ...

Shinto is often described as Japan’s indigenous religion—but can it expand beyond Japan? While traditionally tied to Japanese culture, shrines, and national identity, modern practitioners argue that ...

Large shares in many middle-income countries say following the historically predominant religion is key to "true" national ...

If you pray for love in Izumo, there's a good chance you'll be heard. Every year, eight million gods gather in this seaside ...

In hotspots like Kyoto you sometimes have to queue for the queues, but escaping the country’s overtourism problem couldn’t be simpler ...

Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. A shrine parishioner throws icy cold water on himself during the annual cold-endurance festival at Kanda ...

The religious landscape of Japan is a fascinating blend of Shintoism, Buddhism, and other traditions. Across cultures, India ...

which was cooked overnight over a traditional Japanese open hearth. The fire was lit using a wooden stick rubbed to create friction, a traditional method. Seven Shinto priests, including deputy ...