CULTURE
Why Shinto Shrines Are Abandoning Their Controversial Association
Since 1969, the Association of Shinto Shrines has overseen most shrines in Japan. But ongoing controversies are driving some away.
shinto
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CULTURE
CULTURE
Enmusubi: The Japanese Ritual of Forging Romantic Connections
Is it love...or is it destiny? A look into the concept of enmusubi, including Japan's most famous "power spots" for forging new…
TRAVEL
Izumo Taisha: The Shrine You Must Visit At Least Once
Once a year, Japan's multitude of gods leave the rest of the country. Where do they gather? At Izumo Taisha.
TRAVEL
From Ninja to Ramen: Top 10 Places to Visit in Kyoto
A recent survey asked tourists to Kyoto about their favorite spots. Here are their top five - along with five recommendations from…
SOCIETY
Activists: Shinto Shrine’s Horse Jumping Festival is Animal Abuse
Tado Shrine in Mie Prefecture says it's preserving tradition with ageuma, its horse jumping festival. But activists call it cruel.
LGBTQ
This Shinto Shrine in Hyogo, Japan Openly Welcomes LGBTQ Couples
Japan's Central Shrine Administration has taken an aggressively anti-LGBTQ stance. But some Shinto shrines are bucking the prejudice.
CULTURE
Tsubaki Shrine of America Closing Abruptly, Stunning US Shinto Community
Tsubaki Grand Shrine, a vital location for many US Shinto practitioners, is closing with little notice or fanfare.
CULTURE
Japanese Shrine Maiden School: An Inside View
What does it take to become a certified Japanese shrine maiden? A certified miko gives us an insider's look at a miko…