The Way of the Spirits

The Way of the SpiritsShinto: From the Self to the Sacred Haruki Nishimura

In this work, the reader is guided on a fascinating journey through the ancient spirituality that shaped the soul of Japan. More than just a guide to rituals and myths, this book reveals how Shinto transcends shrines and altars to become a way of life - a path that teaches one to see the divine in the changing seasons, in daily work, in family bonds, and even in the imperfection of existence. With depth and clarity, the book unveils the ancestral principles that connect humans, kami (deities), and nature, exploring everything from everyday practices - such as silent offerings at home altars - to vibrant festivals that celebrate the eternal dance between the sacred and the mundane. Discover how the purity of the heart (magokoro) guides ethics, why gratitude is a bridge to the divine, and how the fleeting beauty of wabi-sabi inspires acceptance and peace.