If you are interested in reading detailed information about each of the major religions of the world such as the founders, sacred texts, beliefs and practices, then please follow this link: http://www.religioustolerance.org/var_rel.htm However this is a brief description of SHINTO Shinto, with 3.5 million* followers, is the ancient native religion of Japan, established long before the introduction of writing to Japan in the fifth century AD The origins of its beliefs and rituals are unknown. Shinto stresses belief in a great many spiritual beings and gods, known as Kami, who are paid tribute at shrines and honored by festivals, and reverence for ancestors. While there is no overall dogma, adherents of Shinto are expected to remember and celebrate the kami, support the societies of which the kami are patrons, remain pure and sincere, and enjoy life.