The kami, or heavenly spirits, play an important role in Shintoism. They are considered to be a person's ancestors. They can visit the world of the living when they are honored with rituals or prayers. They are believed to be able to visit the afterlife and to recycle their spiritual energy when they die.
Shintoism is an example of animism.
Shinto's most important feature is animism. This belief in the existence of spirits in nature is called animism. Shintoist temples often are located in natural settings and rituals are often performed to honor these spirits. Shintoism has many similarities to other forms animism. But it is more grounded in nature than other forms.
It promotes worship of the kami
Shintoism is a religion that worships the kami or spirit beings. These spirits are associated to nature and hate impurity. These spirits prefer honesty, integrity, sincerity and harmony. There are many types, some of which are earth- or heaven-related, and others that are human.
It emphasizes the importance of nature
Shinto emphasizes nature's importance and the spiritual energy it carries. Its philosophy focuses on the belief in a world that is good and healthy, and that evil spirits enter the world to cause temptation. Wrong actions also prevent the flow or blessing of the kami. Two main texts that summarize the philosophy are the Kojiki (712 CE), and the Nihon-gi (77 CE), which both contain traditional myths and teachings.
It emphasizes Makoto – sincerity in one's heart
The core belief of Shintoism is Makoto, or sincerity in the heart. This value does not represent a set of rules or guidelines, but rather a deep sense of sincerity which underlies our entire approach to life. Makoto, the core of all ethical thought from the most fundamental principles to daily life, is the basis for all ethical thought. All cultures and religions share the idea of Makoto.
It emphasizes purification
One of the most important aspects of Shintoism is purification. This is why new buildings are blessed before construction begins, and new cars are blessed as they are being assembled. Another practice is the purification of water.
It is incompatible to Christianity
Shintoism as well as Christianity are incompatible, since they both promote different views on God. Christian doctrine holds that God is both the creator and the loving Father of all creation. Shinto teaches people that they are fallen and have to be saved.