What is the religion practised in Japan?
Japan predominantly practices religious syncretism: over 90% of Japanese people identify with both Buddhism (imported from China and Korea) and Shintoism (the indigenous religion blending animism and ancestor worship). Fewer than 2% are Christian.
The two main religions
Buddhism dominates overwhelmingly, imported from China and Korea. More than 90% of Japanese people claim it, often for funeral rites and meditation.
Shintoism, an indigenous religion born from the blend of animism and ancestor worship, traditionally governs births, marriages, and seasonal festivals.
Japanese religious syncretism
A distinctive feature of Japan: it is rare for residents to adhere fervently to a single doctrine while rejecting others. The majority of Japanese people naturally practice both religions depending on life's circumstances.
Religious minorities
- Christianity : less than 2% of the population attends a Christian church
- Islam : approximately 80 mosques in the country, but only 10% of the 100,000 Muslims are of Japanese origin
Key takeaways
In Japan, religion is integrated into daily life without exclusivity. One individual can pray in a Buddhist temple, participate in a Shinto festival, and celebrate Christmas, without cultural contradiction.