Families can unite, learn, and make lifelong memories when they travel with their children. It can be a really fulfilling experience. Japan is one location that special blends family entertainment with cultural enlightenment. Japan has a lot to offer tourists of all ages, but among its numerous attractions is its rich cultural legacy, especially its Shinto customs and rituals.
Discovering Shinto: Japan’s Indigenous Faith
Shinto, Japan’s indigenous religion, is deeply woven into the fabric of Japanese culture and daily life. It emphasizes harmony with nature, reverence for ancestors, and the worship of kami (spirits or gods). When traveling in Japan, families can explore various aspects of Shinto through visits to its numerous shrines, festivals, and rituals, providing an immersive cultural experience that is both engaging and enlightening for children and adults alike.
Visiting Shinto Shrines
All across Japan, you’ll find beautiful and serene Shinto shrines, or jinja, which families should explore because they offer tranquil oases amidst the hustle and bustle of urban centres. Children will be intrigued by the torii, gates that mark the entrance to the sacred grounds. Often brightly coloured orange or red, they also make for some great photo opportunities.
Before reaching the main hall, located in the centre of the shrine grounds, families may choose to partake in some of the rituals including washing and bowing. These activities offer young children an added interactive element to the visit while also helping to teach them routines and etiquette.
In addition to the shrines, many locations feature stunning gardens and koi (carp) ponds. Children will love feeding the fish and watching the peaceful scenes unfold.
Participating in Shinto Festivals
Bright and colourful Shinto festivals, or matsuri, happen throughout the year. Best of all, families can experience Japanese culture firsthand by participating in these local celebrations. During matsuri, you’ll often find parades, traditional music, dance acts and food stalls. Children will love the lively atmosphere, the chance to wear a summertime kimono, called a yukata, and to sample various Japanese street foods.
One of the most famous Shinto festivals in Japan is the Gion Matsuri held in Kyoto during July. Spectacular parades with decorated floats, traditional music and dance acts are all part of this month-long event. Families can join in some of the events, watch the parades and experience the unique cultural displays.
Learning Through Shinto Rituals
Many Shinto rituals are interesting and open for families to participate in. For example, Hatsumode is the New Year’s shrine visit and a very popular practice in which families can wish for the year ahead. Children can also draw omikuji, paper fortunes, and learn to tie them onto special racks, bringing good luck or counteracting bad fortunes.
Writing ema are another fun activity. Visitors write prayers or wishes on wooden plaques, which are then hung in the shrine for the kami to accept. This is an interesting cultural activity and a great way for children to engage in an authentic and meaningful ritual.
Creating Lasting Memories
There are many opportunities for families to create lasting memories when visiting Japan and exploring Shinto practices and protocols. To enhance your children’s experience, here are some tips:
- Plan Ahead: Identify child-friendly shrines and festivals that align with your holiday itinerary. This will leave you more time to engage with Shinto culture.
- Communicate with Locals: The Japanese are a very friendly people and often eager to share their traditions. Engaging with locals could enrich your holiday and provide added insights.
- Seize the Moments: Tell your children to take photos or maintain a holiday journal. For years after the trip, your family can look back on the holiday and relive the memories through mementos that you can use to help preserve the experience.
Conclusion
By creating trip experiences that are fun, interactive and educational, immersing your family in vibrant Shinto culture when visiting Japan can enrich your understanding of this fascinating country. Whether through participating in colourful festivals, journeying to serene shrines or engaging in rituals, these memories will stay with you and your children forever and help them cultivate a deeper appreciation of the world’s diversity and beauty.
Feature image by tawatchai07 on Freepik