This is adynamic list and may never be able to satisfy particular standards for completeness. You can help byediting the page to add missing items, with references toreliable sources.
This is theglossary ofShinto, including major terms on the subject. Words followed by an asterisk (*) are illustrated by an image in one of the photo galleries.
Akomeôgi (衵扇,lit.'chemise fan') – A type of fan held by aristocratic women of the Heian period when formally dressed; it is brightly painted withtassels and streamers on the ends. Held today in Shinto by amiko in formal costume for festivals. See alsohiôgi.
Aku (悪,lit.'evil') – The term's meaning is not limited to moral evil, and includes misfortune, inferiority and unhappiness.[1]
Akuru (悪樓,lit.'evil tower') – Also known as theAkujin, theKibi-no-Ananowatari-no-Kami and as theAnato-no-Kami,Akuru is a malevolentkami that is mentioned in theKeikoki (records regarding the time of the Emperor Keiko), theNihonshoki (Chronicles of Japan), and theKojiki (The Records of Ancient Matters).
Akuryō Taisan (悪霊退散) – A spell or command to dispel a malevolent spirit, demon, or devil. One of the earliest uses of this phrase can be seen inDōjōji.
Ama (天,lit.'heaven(ly)') – The divine/deva realm of incarnation, the highest realm on the Wheel of Reincarnation.
Amano-Iwato (天岩戸,lit.'Heavenly Rock Cave') – In Shinto, Amano-Iwato is the name of thecave where Amaterasu fled after the violent actions of Susanoo caused the death of one of her weavers. Thus, the land was deprived of light, andmononoke from hell were free to roam the lands and wreak havoc. It took the otherkami to lure her out again, restoring the sun to the world.
Amanojaku (天の邪鬼,lit.'malevolent spirit from heaven') – Anoni-like creature in Japanese folklore; theamanojaku is thought to be able to provoke a person's darkest desires, and can instigate them into perpetrating wicked deeds. Similar to Amanozako. See alsojaki andjama.
Amatsu tsumi (天津罪 /天つ罪,lit.'Crimes in Heaven') – A term for tsumi specifically committed against heaven. For example, the crimes committed by Susanoo-no-Mikoto against Amaterasu are consideredamatsu tsumi. The corresponding concept toamatsu tsumi iskunitsu tsumi.
An* (案,lit.'table' or'platform') – A small portable table or platform used during Shinto ceremonies to bear offerings. It may have four, eight or sixteen legs.
Anzen (安全,lit.'safety' or'security') – A type ofomamori, specifically for safety, particularly safety at work, frequently requested from akami, and in fact corporations often have atutelary shrine specifically to ensure their business prospers.[1]
Aoi Matsuri (葵祭,lit.'Hollyhock Festival') – One of the three main annual festivals held in Kyoto, Japan (the other two being the Festival of the Ages (Jidai Matsuri) and the Gion Festival). It is a festival of the twokamo shrines in the north of the city: Shimogamo Shrine and Kamigamo Shrine. The festival may also be referred to as theKamo Festival. It is held on 15 May of each year.
Ara-mitama (荒魂,lit.'Wild Soul') – The rough and violent side of themitama.[3] Theara-mitama is associated with the colours black and purple, and the cardinal direction north.Ama-no-Zako is actually the incarnatedara-mitama ofSusanoo-no-Mikoto.
Aruki miko (歩き巫女,lit.'wandering shrine maiden') – An itinerantmiko that is not in service to a particular shrine, and wanders throughout the country performing services where needed, and living off-of charity.
Ashihara no Nakatsukuni (葦原の中つ国, lit. The "Middle country ofreed beds") – In Shinto, this term is applied to the plane of existence that exists betweenTakamagahara andYomi, or the realm of the living. The term became another word for the country or the location of Japan itself. The term can be used interchangeably withToyoashihara no Nakatsukuni.
A-un (阿吽,lit.'Om') – InShinto-Buddhism,a-un is the transliteration in Japanese of the two syllables "a" and "hūṃ", written inDevanagari asअहूँ (the syllable,Om). See alsoNio andGozu and Mezu.
Ayakashi (妖怪,lit.'Strange, Unusual, Supernatural, Paranormal, Extraordinary') – An umbrella term that covers ghosts, phantoms, phantasms, apparitions and illusions, goblins, monsters, demons, devils and any kind of supernatural beasts and beings; the corporeal and the incorporeal; real or fantasy;ayakashi is a term more specific foryōkai that appear above the surface of some body of water. See alsorinka,shiranui,will-o'-the-wisp, andSt. Elmo's fire.
Azusa yumi (梓弓,lit.'cherry birch bow') – a sacred bow used in certain Shinto rituals in Japan, as well as a Japanese musical bow; made from the wood of the Japanese cherry birch tree (Betula grossa). Playing anazusa yumi forms part of some Shinto rituals; in Japan, it is universally believed that merely the twanging of the bowstring will frighten ghosts and evil spirits away from a house.
Bishamonten – Syncretic deity of Buddhist origin part of the Seven Lucky Gods.[1] A symbol of authority, he protects warriors.
Bon Matsuri (盆,lit.'Votive offeringFestival') – A festival celebrated around July 15 in order to console the spirits of the dead. In theory a Buddhist festival, but in practice an ancestor and family festival part of Shinto.[1]
Bonshō (梵鐘,lit.'Buddhist temple bell') – Large bells found in Buddhist temples throughout Japan, used to summon the monks to prayer and to demarcate periods of time. Instead of containing a clapper,bonshō are struck from the outside using either a handheld mallet or a beam suspended on ropes. See alsosuzu,kagura suzu,rin, anddōtaku.
Bosatsu (菩薩) – Abodhisattva. Term of Buddhist origin which is often used for deities of mixed Buddhist/Shinto ancestry such as Benzaiten andjizō,kami like Hachiman, and deified human beings likeTokugawa Ieyasu.[1]
Bōrei (亡霊,lit.'deceased spirit') – A term for a ghost; a type ofyūrei, but one whose identity (and grudge) is unknown.
Buden (舞殿,lit.'dance hall') – Another word for akaguraden, a pavilion or stage dedicated to the performing of thekagura.
Bunrei (分霊,lit.'soul division') – A process of division of akami producing two complete copies of the original, one of which is then transferred to a new shrine by a process calledkanjō.
Bunsha (分社,lit.'shrine division') – A shrine that is a part of a network headed by a more famous shrine, from whence itskami was transferred bykanjō.[1]
Chigi* (千木,lit.'ThousandWood(en beams)') – Forked decorations common at the ends of the roof of shrines.
Chihara (襅,千早,lit.'finishing-touch robe') – A type of ceremonial overcoat with a long white hem worn by aMiko in certain Shinto ceremonies; similar to a Kannushi'sJōe over-robes.
Chitose ame (千歳飴,lit.'thousand-year candy') – Long, thin sticks of red-and-white candy—which symbolizes healthy growth and longevity—sold at festivals for children, specifically forShichi-Go-San.Chitose ame is given in a bag decorated with a crane and a turtle—which represent long life in Japan.Chitose ame is wrapped in thin, clear, and edible rice paper film that resembles plastic.
Chōchō (蝶,lit.'butterfly') – Butterflies native to Japan and to Japanese culture. Thechōchō is also featured amongengimono (above).It is seen as lucky, especially if seen in pairs; if a symbol contains two butterflies dancing around each other, it is a symbol of marital happiness.
Chikushō (畜生,lit.'animal/livestock') – The mortal, animal realm of incarnation, the third-lowest realm on the wheel of reincarnation. See alsorinne.
Chōzubachi (手水鉢,lit.'hand-washing earthenware basin') – Usually made of stone, achōzubachi is a water bowl, is a vessel used to rinse the hands in Japanese temples, shrines and gardens; see alsoChōzuya.
Chōzuya (手水舎,lit.'hand-washing pavilion') – A Shinto water ablution pavilion for a ceremonial purification rite. The pavilion contains a large water-filled basin called achōzu-bachi.
Chinkon (鎮魂,lit.'the calming of the spirits') – A Shinto ritual performed for convertingara-mitama intonigi-mitama, quelling maleficent spirits, prevent misfortune and alleviate fear from events and circumstances that could not otherwise be explained; i.e.Ara-mitama that failed to achieve deification due to lack of sufficient veneration, or who lost their divinity following attrition of worshipers, becameyōkai. See also;Segaki.
Chinkonsei (鎮魂祭,lit.'Calming-of-the Spirits Service' or'Requiem') – AShintoMatsuri (a festival) performed for convertingara-mitama intonigi-mitama, quelling maleficent spirits, preventing misfortune and alleviating fear from events and circumstances that could not otherwise be explained.
Daijōsai (大嘗祭,lit.'Great Tastes Festival') – A ceremony marking the beginning of an emperor's reign in which he offers first fruits to ancestors, including Amaterasu.[1]
Daikyōkan Jigoku (大叫喚地獄,lit.'Hell of Great Screaming') – The fifth level ofJigoku; sinners who have committed murder (even the murder of small creatures such as insects), theft, degeneration, drunkenness, and lying are sent here.
Daishonetsu Jigoku (大焦熱地獄,lit.'Hell of Great Burning') – The seventh level ofJigoku. Sinners who have committed murder (even the murder of small creatures such as insects), theft, degeneration, drunkenness, lying, blasphemy, and rape are sent here.
Ebisu (恵比須,恵比寿,夷,戎) – Thekami of prosperity found at both temples and shrines. One of the Seven Lucky Gods.
Eboshi (烏帽子,lit.'raven (black) hat') – A type ofpointed hat originally worn by Heian era aristocrats and samurai. Worn byKannushi as formalwear for occasions such as festivals and weddings. See alsokanmuri andkazaori eboshi.
Eirei (英霊) – The spirit or ghost of a warrior/soldier who fell in battle.
Ema* (絵馬,lit.'picture horse') – Small wooden plaques on which worshippers at shrines, as well as Buddhist temples, write their prayers or wishes.
Fuji-san (富士山) – The most famous among Japan's three sacred mountains, the Three Spiritual Mountains (三霊山,Sanreizan). Mt. Fuji is inhabited by akami calledKonohanasakuya-hime.[1]
Fūjin (風神) – Thekami of the winds who is the brother of Raijin; together, they are both said to be two of the many sons and other children of Izanagi and Izanami.
Gagaku (雅楽,lit.'elegant music') – Ancient court music that was introduced into Japan with Buddhism from the Korean peninsula and China; now played for Shinto and Buddhist rituals and ceremonies.
Gaki (餓鬼,lit.'hungry ghost') – The "hungry ghost" realm of incarnation, the second-lowest realm on the wheel of reincarnation. Seerinne.
Gehōbako (外法箱,lit.'outer path box') – A supernatural box that is used to hold Shinto paraphernalia, particular to a givenjinja; such contents include dolls, animal and human skulls, and Shinto rosaries/prayer beads.
Gion Matsuri (祇園祭) – One of the three main annual festivals held in Kyoto, Japan (the other two being theAoi Matsuri and theJidai Festival). Gion Matsuri is one of the largest festivals in Japan for purification and pacification of disease-causing-entities. It takes place on 17 and 24 July.
Gongen (権現,lit.'CurrentAuthority;Incarnation') – A Buddhist god that chooses to appear as a Japanesekami to take the Japanese to spiritual salvation, and a name sometimes used for shrines (e.g. "Tokusō Gongen") before theshinbutsu bunri.
Goryō (御霊,lit.'honourable soul') – A soul, angry for having died violently or unhappy, which needs to be pacified through Buddhist rites or enshrinement, likeSugawara no Michizane;[1] vengeful Japanese ghosts from the aristocratic classes, especially those who have been martyred.
Gosekku (五節句,lit.'five seasonal festivals') – The five annual cultural festivals that were traditionally held in theJapanese imperial court. TheGosekku were originally adapted from Chinese practices and first celebrated in Japan in theNara period in the 8th–10th centuries CE. The festivals were held until the beginning of the Meiji era.
Gozu-tennō (牛頭天王) – Buddhist name of Susanoo, considered an avatar ofBhaisajyaguru.[1]
Gunbai (軍配,lit.'army positioning') – An item associated with leadership and ceremonial significance, back in Ancient Japan; wielded by royalty, aristocracy,daimyo, military leaders, andkannushi; nowadays used by umpires in sumo.
Hachiman-zukuri (八幡造,lit.'Hachiman architecture') – Shinto architectural style in which two parallel structures with gabled roofs are connecting on the non-gabled side forming a single building which, when seen from the side, gives the impression of two.[4]
Hakama (袴) – A type of traditional Japanese clothing; originally inspired fromkù (simplified Chinese:裤;traditional Chinese:褲), trousers used by the Chinese imperial court in the Sui and Tang dynasties. This style was adopted by the Japanese in the form of thehakama, beginning in the sixth century.
Haku (魄) – Stemming fromTaoism,haku is the complement ofkon, and is thelife force that is attached to the body, and returns to the earth after death.
Hakurei (魄霊) – The soul or spirit of a person who has usually just died.
Hakusan – Collective name given to three mountains worshiped askami and sacred to the Shugendō.[5] Hakusan shrines are common all over Japan.
Han-honji suijaku (本地垂迹) – A theory conceived by Yoshida Kanetomo which reversed the standardhonji suijaku theory, asserting Buddhist gods wereavatars of Japanesekami.[1]
Hanagasa (花笠) – A flowered-hat worn bymiko during festivals.
Hannya (般若,lit.'Prajñā') – A femaleyōkai found in Japanese folklore (and inkagura andNoh), and is most often described as a monstrousoni of a female; ahannya is ayōkai who was originally once a normal mortal human woman, but one who has become so overcome with her jealousy that it has metaphorically consumed her, followed by literally transforming her.
Haraedo-no-Kami (祓戸の神) –Kami of purification. Amongst the manykami born when Izanagi performedmisogi in order to cleanse the netherworld filth on him after he had returned from his futile attempt to retrieve his late consort, Izanami.
Hatsuyume (初夢,lit.'first dream') – The first dream that a person has in the New Year. In Shinto, it is believed that the subjects of the first dreams of the year are representative of what one's upcoming year will be like.
Heishi (瓶子,lit.'vase') – Small bottles used for holding offerings, such assake; numbered amongst theshingu for holding offerings.
Himorogi (神籬,lit.'divine fence') – Temporary sacred spaces or altars used to worship.Himorogi are usually areas demarcated with green bamboo orsakaki at the four corners supportingshimenawa.
Hinamatsuri (雛祭り,lit.'girls' festival') – A ceremony held on 3 March, celebrating the women of Japan, as well as expressing wishes for their continued good health. Originally celebrated as the "Peach Festival", it became known asHina-Matsuri during the reign ofEmpress Meishō.
Hirazara (平皿,lit.'flat plate') – Numbered amongst theshingu (tools used in shrine altars and home altars) for holding offerings, specifically one for holdingrice and one for holdingsalt.
Hitobashira (人柱,lit.'human pillar') – A human sacrifice, buried alive under or near large-scale buildings like dams, bridges and castles.Hitobashira can also refer to workers who were buried alive under inhumane conditions.
Hōhei/hōbei (奉幣,lit.'money offering') – Offerings made to akami, usually consisting inheihaku, but sometimes of jewels, money, weapons or other objects.[1]
Hokosaki Suzu (鉾先鈴,lit.'Halberd Bell') – Similar to aKagura Suzu, aHokosaki Suzu is a set of several bells on a short-staff.
Hōko (這子,lit.'crawling child') – A soft-bodied doll given to young women of age and pregnant women in Japan as an amulet to protect both the new mother and the unborn child.
Hokora/hokuraman (祠 or神庫) – An extremely small shrine. One of the earliest words forshrine.
Honden (本殿,lit.'main hall') – Also calledshinden (神殿) ("divine hall"), thehonden is the most sacred building of a shrine, intended for the exclusive use of the enshrinedkami.
Honji suijaku (本地垂迹) – A theory dominant for centuries in Japan according to which Japanesekami are local manifestations of Indian gods.
Hongū (本宮,lit.'main shrine') – Located only within ajingū, the main shrine enshrining the principalkami, as opposed tobetsugū,sessha ormassha. The term includeshaiden,heiden andhonden.[1] See alsohonsha.
Honsha (本社) – The main shrine of a shrine complex. It is followed hierarchically bysessha andmassha.
Hōsōshi (方相氏) – An obsolete term for the role driving away devils at a religious ceremony, or the driver of the hearse carrying the coffin of a deceased emperor, back in ancient Japan; aritualexorcist fulfilling a role in a funeral, calledtsuina (see below). Originally aTang dynasty Chinese custom, later adopted by the Japanese during the Heian period.
Hotoke (仏,lit.'Buddha') – A term meaning eitherBuddha ordead soul. While Buddhist in origin, the term is used in the second sense by all Japanese religions.[1]
Hyakudoishi (百度石,lit.'hundred-times stone') – Sometimes present as a point of reference for thehyakudomairi near the entrance of a shrine or Buddhist temple.
Hyakudomairi (百度参り,lit.'hundred-times visits') – A worshipper with a special prayer will visit the shrine a hundred times. After praying, they must go at least back to the entrance or around ahyakudoishi for the next visit to be counted as separate.
Ichijama (生邪魔,lit.'living evil spirit') – A type of curse fromOkinawa; it is a type ofikiryō—-a spirit of a still-living person which leaves the body to haunt its victim. Anichijama is enacted using a special doll known as anichijama butokii. See alsoUshi no Koku Mairi.
Ichikishima-hime-no-mikoto (市杵島姫命) – See Benzaiten.
Ichirei Shikon (一霊四魂,lit.'one spirit, four souls') – Aphilosophy within Shinto in which one's soul consists of a whole spirit callednaohi (直霊) that is connected with the heaven and theshikon: theara-mitama,kushi-mitama,nigi-mitama, andsaki-mitama.
Ihai (位牌) – Aplacard used to designate the seat of a deity or past ancestor. The name of the deity or past ancestor is usually inscribed onto the tablet. With origins in traditional Chinese culture, the spirit tablet is a common sight in many East Asian countries where any form of ancestor veneration is practiced.
Ikan (衣冠) – A set of official robes worn by aristocrats and court officials of the Heian-era court. Worn today in Shinto by akannushi in formal costume for festivals.
Ikiryō (生霊) – In Japanese popular belief,folklore and fiction, it refers to a disembodied spirit that leaves the body of a person who is still living and subsequently haunts other people or places, sometimes across great distances..
Imi (忌み,lit.'abhorrent') – Something to be avoided, particularly to a ceremony.[1] See alsokegare andtsumi.
Inari Ōkami* (稲荷大神) – The Shintokami of fertility, rice, agriculture, foxes, industry, and worldly success. Inari's shrines can be identified by the stone foxes which adorn it.
Itako/Ichiko (神巫,巫子 &市子) – The blind femaleshamans from northwest Honshu who act as a link between human beings andkami, echoing what was probably the former role ofmiko in Shinto.[1]
Iwakura* (磐座) – A rock where akami has been invited to descend for worship. Seeyorishiro.
Izanagi (イザナギ) – Thebrother-husband of Izanami, Izanagi is one of the Japanese creatorkami; according to theNihongi andKojiki, he gave birth to Japan,[1] and is the father of Amaterasu, Tsukuyomi and Susanoo.
Izanami (イザナミ) – Thesister-wife of Izanagi. She is one of the Japanese creatorkami, according to theNihongi andKojiki, gave birth to Japan,[1] later dying in childbirth with her last child, Kagutsuchi, who burned her alive and sent her to the Underworld, Izanami becomes akami of death.
Jaki (邪鬼,lit.'malevolent spirits') – Anoni-like creature in Japanese folklore, thought to be able to provoke a person's darkest desires. Similar to theamanojaku.
Jama (邪魔,lit.'malevolent demons') – A demon or devil of perversity, a hindrance to the practice of purity in Shinto and the practice of enlightenment in Buddhism.
Jichinsai (地鎮祭,lit.'ground-pacifying ceremony') – A ceremony held by a Shinto priest on a site before the start of construction on the behalf of owners and workers to pacify and appease local spirits.[1]
Jidai Matsuri (時代祭, lit. the "festival of the ages") – One of the three main annual festivals held in Kyoto, Japan (the other two being the Aoi Matsuri and the Gion Festival). It is held on October 22 every year.
Jikininki (食人鬼,lit.'human-eating ghost') – In Japanese Buddhism,jikininki are the spirits of greedy, selfish, or impious individuals who are cursed after death to seek out and eat human corpses. See alsogaki.
Jinja-bukkaku (神社) – Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples, especially a combined shrine/temple complex.
Jinja-fukkyū (神社復旧) – A reversal of theMeiji period'sjinja gappei. Not to be confused withjinja fukushi.[1]
Jinja-fukushi (神社福祉) – A form of unofficial and illegal restoration of a merged shrine. Seejinja-gappei.[1]
Jinja-gappei (神社合併) – A policy begun in the early 1900s, when half the shrines were merged with the remainder and disappeared.[1]
Jinja-honchō (神社本庁) – Also known as the Association of Shinto Shrines, it is a group that includes most of the Shinto shrines in Japan.[1]
Jinja-kaikan (神社会館) – A hotel-like building inside large shrines used for weddings.
Jinja-shinto (神社神道) – Originally a synonym of State Shinto (Kokka Shinto below), it is now a term criticized by specialists as problematic.[1] When applied to post-war Shinto, it means the beliefs and practices associated to shrines, particularly those associated with the Association of Shinto Shrines.[1]
Jisha (寺社) – A temple's tutelary shrine. See alsochinjusha (above) andjinja-bukkaku.
Jōe (浄衣,lit.'pure robes') – A formal over-garment worn bykannushi during religious ceremonies; a silkkariginu.
Jōtō (上棟, "Raising the Roof") – A Shinto ceremony held when raising the main beam that forms the ridge of the roof.
Junpai (巡拝,lit.'patrol route') – The custom of visiting a fixed series of 33 or 88 shrines or temples, or shrines-&-temples.[1]
Junrei (巡礼,lit.'patrol etiquette') – The term most commonly used for either of two major types ofpilgrimages inJapan, in accordance with Buddhism or Shinto. These pilgrimages can be made as a visit to a group oftemples,shrines, or other holy sites, in a particular order, often in a circuit of 33 or 88 sites.
Kabura-ya (鏑矢,lit.'turnip arrow') – In Shinto, the sound made by thekabura-ya in mid-flight is thought toward-off evil influences; like thehamaya, thekabura-ya is used in Shinto cleansing rites of sites, shrine grounds, and parks.
Kabuto (冑 or兜,lit.'helmet') – A helmet—complete with asuit of armour—sometimes dedicated to shrines, and indicative of akami's power to ward-off and protect from negative influences.
Kagami (鏡,lit.'mirror') – Often used in Shinto worship; originallybronze mirrors were used (see alsoshinkyō), having been introduced to Japan from China; the most famous example of mirrors inShinto is theYata no Kagami.
Kagura (神楽,lit.'divine entertainment') – A type of Shinto dance with deep ties to theEmperor and his family, accompanied by instruments, which is also calledmikagura (御神楽). It is also a type of Shinto dance performed at shrines during religious rites, and is also calledsatokagura (里神楽).
Kagari-bi (篝火) –Candle holders, also calledrōsoku-tate (ローソク立,lit.'Candle Holders'). They are designed for burning tiny white candles that are lit whenever one visits thekamidana for prayers. Some people use little electric lanterns instead of candles.
Kagutsuchi (迦具土) – The Shinto fire god and patron deity of blacksmiths and ceramic workers.
according toMotoori Norinaga, akami is "any thing or phenomenon that produces the emotions of fear and awe, with no distinction between good and evil".[citation needed]
Kamiarizuki (神有月) – Alunar calendar month corresponding roughly to October. Because it is believed that in that month allkami go toIzumo Taisha, it is called "month with gods" in Izumo.[1] See alsoKannazuki.
Kamikakushi (神隠し) – A term used to refer to the mysterious disappearance or death of a person that happens when an angered god takes a person away. Japanese folklore contains numerous tales of humans abducted to the spirit world bykami. See alsotengu-kakushi.
Kamimukae (神迎え) – The first part of a typical festival.[1] The spirit is usually invited to ahimorogi.
Kanai Anzen (家内安全) – A specific kind ofomamori meant to safeguard the safety of one's family.
Kanayago (金屋子神) – a god of blacksmiths, mainly in Chugoku Region (Shintoism).
Kanjō (勧請) – A process through which akami is transferred to a new shrine. See alsobunrei.
Kanju (干珠) – One of two magical gems that Ryūjin used to control the tides; its counterpart is theManju.
Kansan (汗衫) – A thin jacket for girls of the aristocracy of the Heian period. Now worn bymiko in formal attire for ceremonies and festivals.
Kanmuri (冠) – A formal traditionalheaddress worn by the Japanese emperor and by aristocratic men of the Heian period when formally dressed. Today, it in worn in Shinto by akannushi in formal costume for formal ceremonies and festivals.
Kannushi* (神主) – A Shinto priest who is a master of shrine ceremonies, rituals, and festivals.
Kariginu (狩衣,lit.'hunting robes') – A style of cloak, originally the costume that Heian-era nobles wore when they went out hunting, which became the nobles' daily casual clothes. Worn today in Shinto by akannushi in formal costume for rituals, ceremonies and festivals.
Katana (刀,lit.'blade') – Asword, sometimes dedicated to shrines (along with other weapons, such asnaginata and spears), and indicative of akami's power to ward off negative influences.
Katashiro (形代, model substitute) – A traditional Japanese doll, made of materials like paper or straw, used in certain purification rituals, used as a substitute for a person, as the target for a prayer or curse cast against them.
Katsuogi* (鰹木,勝男木,葛緒木) – A style of short decorative poles on a shrine's roof set at a right angle to the roof's ridgepole. See alsokasoegi.
Kazaori Eboshi (風折烏帽子) – A type ofpointed hat originally worn by Heian-era aristocrats and samurai. It is now worn bykannushi as formalwear for occasions such as festivals and weddings.
Kekkai (結界,lit.'Fastened-off World') – a restriction in access to a specific area, barred-off often for the purposes of training &/or purification in esoteric Buddhism (and Hinduism).
Kenkai (見界,lit.'visible world') – The world that one can see without any kind of supernatural gift; the world of the living.
Kenkon (乾坤) – A term used to refer to the union of opposites.
Ki (氣 or気) – A vital force forming part of any living entity. See alsohaku.
Kijo (鬼女) – Anoni woman from Japanese legends. See alsoonibabā (below) andyama-uba (below).
Kimon (鬼門) – Based on theassignment of the twelve zodiac animals to the cardinal directions, the direction of northeast, known as the direction ofushi-tora (丑寅,lit.'Ox-Tiger'), is also-known-as the direction ofKimon; one theory is that theoni's cowlike horns and tigerskin loincloth developed as a visual depiction of this term. According to Taoism and esotericonmyōdō, the northeasterly direction is considered an unlucky direction through which evil spirits pass, and, as-such, is termed asKimon; having to travel in this direction was seen as a bad omen for a journey.
Kegare (穢れ,lit.'impurity') – defilement due to natural phenomena, for example the contact with dead bodies. The opposite ofkegare iskiyomi. See alsoimi (above) andtsumi (below).
Kigen (寄絃) – A ritual (i.e. duringshihobarai) of banishing evil spirits and other negative influences, which can be achieved by the strumming of bows, such as ahama yumi and anazusa yumi.
Kirin (麒麟) – A mythical creature in Asian mythology; in Shinto, the kirin are considered messengers of thekami.
Kisshōten (吉祥天,lit.'Auspicious Heavens') – A Japanese goddess of good fortune,wealth andprosperity. Adapted, via Buddhism, from the Hindu goddessLakshmi. Kisshōten is sometimes named as one of the Seven Gods of Fortune, replacing either Jurōjin or Fukurokuju.
Kitsune* (狐,lit.'fox') – Animal believed to have magical powers and to be a messenger to Inari. Inari shrines are always protected by statues of foxes, sometimes wearing red votive bibs.
Kitsune no yomeiri (狐の嫁入り,lit.'fox wedding') – Thekitsune no yomeiri can refer to several things:atmospheric ghost lights; a sunshower; and various strange wedding processions that can be seen in classical Japanesekaidan, essays, and legends. Thekitsune-no-yomeiri is always closely related to foxes.
Kiyome (清,lit.'purity') – The concept of purity within Shinto, the state in which all beings start-out as at birth, and can return to again by undergoing acts ofharae, such asmisogi. The opposite ofkiyomi iskegare.
Kō (講,lit.'lecture') – A lay worship group focusing on a particularkami or sacred location which may perform pilgrimages and other rites.
Koban (小判,lit.'small ingot') – Originally currency in the Edo period. In modern times, they are sold asengimono from Shinto shrines, or, at-least, symbolically, gold-foil cardboard versions are given in the place of the solid-gold ingots, particularly as decorations for akumade, both attained from Shinto shrines for good fortune in business.
Kōdō (皇道, lit. the "Imperial Way") – Shinto as defined by post-Meiji nationalist.[1]
Kogakkan University (皇学館大学) – A university located near Ise Shrine that is one of two universities authorized to train Shinto priests.
Kokka Shinto (国家神道,lit.'State Shinto') – Japanese translation of the English termState Shinto created in 1945 by the US occupation forces to define the post-Meiji religious system in Japan.
Kokoro (心,lit.'heart') – The essence of a thing or being.
Kokugakuin Daigaku (國學院大學) – Tokyo university that is one of two authorized to train Shinto priests.
Komainu* (狛犬) – Stone wardenmaned-dogs usually present at the entrance of a shrine.
Kon (魂,lit.'soul') – Stemming from Taoism,kon is the part of the soul that goes to heaven and is able to leave the body, carrying with it an appearance of physical form; the subliminal self. See alsotamashii.
Konaoshi (小直衣) – Attire of theHeian court, now worn bykannushi in formal functions.
Konjin (金神) – An itinerantkami fromonmyōdō. Konjin is associated with compass directions, and said to change position with the year, lunar month, and season.
Konpaku (魂魄) – Every living human has both akon and ahaku.
Kome (米,lit.'Rice') – Offerings of white rice made at Shinto shrines and a household'skamidana. See alsoō-kome.
Kotoamatsukami (別天神) – The collective name for the firstKami which came into existence at the time of the creation of the universe, according to theKokiji. They were came into being up in Takamagahara at the time of creation. Unlike later gods, these deities were born without any procreation. See alsoAmatsukami (above).
Kuebiko (久延毘古) – A Shintokami of local knowledge and agriculture, represented in Japanese mythology as ascarecrow, who cannot walk but has comprehensive self-awareness andomniscience.
Kumade (熊手,lit.'bear hand') – Arake; a smaller, handheld, decorated version is sold as anengimono and is believed to be able to, literally, rake-in good-fortune &/or rake-out bad-fortune for the user.
Kumo (雲,lit.'cloud') – Synonymous with heaven; in the event that a householdkamidana cannot be installed in the highest point of the house, theKanji for 'Cloud' is written on a piece of paper and affixed above thekamidana; doing this lets thekami know that, while they should be enshrined at the highest point, circumstances prevent this from being-so.
Kunitsu tsumi (国津罪/国つ罪) – A term fortsumi specifically committed on Earth. The corresponding concept isamatsu tsumi.
Kushi-mitama (奇魂) – The wise and experienced side of amitama. Thekushi-mitama is associated with the colours blue and green, and with the cardinal direction of east.
Kusudama (薬玉,lit.'medicine ball') – Originating from ancient Japanese culture,kusudama were used forincense andpotpourri; possibly originally being actual bunches of flowers or herbs. They are now typically used as decorations or as gifts.
Kuwabara kuwabara (桑原桑原,lit.'mulberry field') – A phrase used in the Japanese language to ward off lightning. It is analogous to the English phrase "knock on wood" to prevent bad luck.
Kyōha Shinto (教派神道,lit.'sect Shinto') – A label applied to certain sects by the Meiji government to give them an official status.[1]
Madai (真鯛,lit.'genuine seabream') – A fish native to Japan. It is also featured amongEngimono (above), as its red colour is seen asauspicious. Themadai is often seen withEbisu, as he is the patronkami of fisherman and one of the Seven Lucky Gods.
Marebito (稀人 or客人) – A concept of a spiritual or divine being that visits from the 'other world' (takai, a term for the Japanese afterlife) at specific times and, thus, must be shown the height ofhospitality.
Misogi* (禊) – An ascetic practice of ritual ablution purification.
Mitama (御魂,御霊 or神霊,lit.'honourable soul') – The spirit of akami or the soul of a dead person.[7] The opposite ofmitama istamashii. See alsoara-mitama,kushi-mitama,nigi-mitama andsaki-mitama.
Miya (宮,lit.'palace') – A term that often defines a shrine enshrining a specialkami or a member of the Imperial household, for example an empress. See alsoŌ-miya (below)
Mizutama (水玉,lit.'water orb') – A small, droplet-shaped vessel, used for holding offerings of fresh water on akamidama, and is to be changed daily; belongs to theshingu for holding offerings.
Mochitsuki (餅搗き, もちつき) – A traditional activity for occasions like Japanese New-Year, rice is pounded intomochi and is eaten in hopes of gaining good fortune over the coming year. The activity is associated with the moon, jade, or golden rabbit, which according to East-Asian folklore, is said to pound rice (or theelixir of life) in itsmortar and pestle, at the behest of thekami.
Momijigari (紅葉狩,lit.'red leaf hunting') – The Japanese traditional festival and custom of enjoying the transient beauty of leaves changing colour in the autumn; the Japanese tradition of going to visit scenic areas where leaves have turned red in the autumn; particularlymaple tree leaves.
Mori (杜 or森,lit.'forest') – A wood, a forest, a grove, specifically a grove or forest on shrine grounds. It reflects close relationship between trees and shrines. Tree worship is common in Shinto.
Muenbotoke (無縁仏) – The soul or spirit of a deceased human with no living connections amongst the living; the dead who have no living relatives); similarly togaki andjikininki, amuenbotoke can be appeased by asagaki.
Mugen Jigoku (無間地獄) – The eighth and deepest level ofJigoku, where sinners that have committed murder, theft, degeneration, drunkenness, lying, blasphemy, and rape,parricide, and assassination of holy men are sent.
Musubi-no-Kami (結びの神,lit.'deity of binding') – One of the Shintokami of creation; also known as thekami of matchmaking, love, and marriages.
Musuhi (産霊) – A term in Shinto for the spiritual influences that produces all the things in the universe and helps them develop and complete their cycle.
Myōjin (明神,lit.'bright deity') – A term that refers to a title, historically applied tokami and their shrines. See alsosannō.
Nagashi-bina (流し雛) – Ritual purification ceremonies held where participants make dolls out of materials such as paper or straw and send them on a boat down a river, carrying one's impurities and sin with them.
Naginata (薙刀,lit.'weeding blade') – Apolearm, sometimes dedicated to shrines (along with other weapons, such askatana and spears), and indicative of akami's power to ward off negative influences.
Namahage (生剥,lit.'raw peel') – In traditionalJapanese folklore is a demon-like being, portrayed by men wearing heftyoni masks and traditional straw capes during a New Year's ritual.
Ne-no-kuni (根の国,lit.'land of roots') – A term referring to a netherworld or limbo in Japanese mythology, like the Sanzu River. It is sometimes considered to be identical to Yomi, but darker, as well asTokoyo-no-kuni.
Nigi-mitama (和魂,lit.'tranquil soul') – The friendly and cooperative side of a completemitama. It is associated with the colour white and the cardinal direction of west.
Nihon Shoki (日本書紀) – An early Japanese written chronicle of myths, legends, songs, genealogies, oral traditions, and semi-historical accounts down to 720 AD. Similar to theKojiki.
Ningen (人間) – The human realm of incarnation, the third-highest realm on the wheel of reincarnation. SeeRinne (below).
Nio (仁王) – In Shinto-Buddhism,nio is the Japanese name for theKongōrikishi, the two wrathful and muscular guardians of the Buddha standing at the entrance of many Buddhist temples. See alsoa-un, and Gozu and Mezu.
Noshi (熨斗) – Ceremonial pieces of paper wrapped in a sheet of coloured paper folded in a long hexagonal shape that are attached to gifts and presents offered on festive occasions in Japan.
Nusa (幣) – Seeōnusa; a wooden wand used in Shinto rituals. It is decorated with manyshide.
Nyoihōju (如意宝珠,lit.'As-One-Wishes Jewel') – A wish-fulfilling jewel within bothHindu andBuddhist traditions, and the Eastern equivalent of thephilosopher's stone in Western alchemy. It is one of severalMani Jewel images found in Buddhist scripture. TheNyoihōju is commonly-depicted within the hands of Kisshōten, as-well-as in the hands of a bodhisattva in art.
Ofuda (御札 orお札) – Written paper spells, amulets and talismans. See alsoomamori.
Okame (阿亀) – Also called Otafuku. It is a mask that depicts the face of a woman who has a short nose and swollen round cheeks.
O-kome (御米) – Offerings of white rice made at Shinto shrines and a household'skamidana. See alsokome.
O-kuizome (お食い初め,lit.'first food') – When a baby is 100 days old, Japanese families celebrate a weaning ceremony calledO-Kuizome. This ceremony traditionally involves a large shared meal prepared by the mother-in-law.
Ōmagatoki (逢魔時 and大禍時) – A term referring to the moment at twilight, when the sky grows dark.Ōmagatoki is the time whenchimimōryō, the evil spirits of the mountains and rivers, attempt to materialise in the World of the Living.
Omamori (お守り) –amulets andtalismans available at shrines and temples for particular purposes, for example health or success in business.
Ō-miki (御神酒 or神酒) – Offerings of white rice wine made at Shinto shrines and a household'skamidana. It is often consumed as part of Shinto purification rituals. See alsosake.
Omikuji* (御御籤 or御神籤) – fortunes written on strips of paper that are often found at shrines wrapped around tree branches.
Oni (鬼) – In one interpretation of anoni, they are a kind ofyōkai, whereas another interpretation of anoni is as something completely separate from ayōkai (although both are supernatural monsters). See alsojikininki andgaki.
Onibabā (鬼婆) – Anoni woman from Japanese legends. See alsokijo andyama-uba.
Onibi (鬼火) – A type of atmospheric ghost light in legends of Japan; according to folklore, they can be anything from fires caused byoni, to the spirits born from the corpses of humans and animals. They are also said to be resentful people that have become fire and appeared.
Onigawara (鬼瓦,lit.'Oni Tile(s)') – A type of roof ornamentation found in Japanese architecture. They are generally roof tiles or statues depicting anoni. Prior to the Heian period, similar ornaments with floral and plant designs (hanagawara) preceded theonigawara.
Oni hitokuchi (鬼一口) – A term similar tokamikakushi andtengukakushi (below), referring-to the mysterious disappearance or death of a person without warning or without a trace.
Onmyōryō (陰陽寮) – A governmental office ofonmyōdō that was responsible for timekeeping and calendar-making. They also documented and analysed omens and fortunes.
Ō-Nenju (念珠 or数珠) – A string of prayer beads commonly used in Hinduism, Jainism, Sikhism, Buddhism and Shinto for the spiritual practice known in Sanskrit asjapa.
Ō-Nusa (大幣) – Wooden wands used in rituals. Decorated with manyshide, they are waved left and right during ceremonies.
Osechi (御節,lit.'season') – Also known asosechi-ryōri (御節料理 or お節料理), anosechi is a traditional spread of Japanese New Year foods. The tradition started in the Heian period (794–1185).Osechi are recognizable by theirjūbako (重箱), which resemblebentō boxes.Osechi includes dishes likeozōni.
O-Shichiya (お七夜,lit.'seventh night') – When a baby turns seven days old, families officially name the baby. The mother, the father, and the grandparents are often involved in this process.
Otafuku (阿多福) – A mask that represents a smiling Japanese woman with large, rosy cheeks.Otafuku is also known as Ame-no-Uzume
Raijin (雷神) – Thekami ofthunder andlightning who is the brother of Fūjin; together, they are both said to be two of the many sons and other children of Izanagi and Izanami.
Rin (鈴) – A type of standing bell or resting bell.
Rinne (輪廻) – The concept of rebirth; the beginning-less cycle of repeated birth from within six realms of reincarnation, mundane existence and dying again.
Ryōbu Shintō (両部神道) – Also calledshingon Shintō, in Japanese religion, the syncretic school that combined Shinto with the teachings of theShingon sect ofBuddhism. The school developed during the late Heian and Kamakura periods. The basis of the school's beliefs was the Japanese concept thatkami were manifestations of Buddhist divinities.
Saikigū (祭器具) – The utensils used in religious ceremonies, including thesanbō,oshiki,hassoku-an, andtakatsuki.
Sakaki* (榊) – A type of flowering evergreen tree native to Japan that is sacred in Shinto. Cuttings of sakaki, calledtamagushi, are often offered as offerings at shrines and in rituals. Cuttings are also displayed on either side of akamidana as offerings.
Sakaki-tate (榊立,lit.'Sakaki Stands') – A pair of small, white vases, used for displaying cuttings of sakaki are displayed on either side of akamidana as offerings and at rituals.
Sake (酒) – An alcoholic beverage made by fermenting white rice.
Saki-mitama (幸魂) – The happy and loving side of a completemitama. It is associated with the colours red and pink, and with the cardinal direction of south.
Sanbon Jime (三本締め) – A custom in Japan; rhythmic-clapping hands—and shouting-loudly—when celebrating. This is done when people are celebrating the successful end of an event.
Sandō* (参道) – The path leading from atorii to a shrine. The term is also used sometimes at Buddhist temples too.
Sannō (山王,lit.'Mountain King') – A term that refers to, both a title for a type ofkami, and a specific divine spirit that protects a divine mountain.
Sanpai sahō (参拝作法) – The way in which the Japanese worship at shrines, bowing twice, clapping twice, then bowing one last time.
Seijin-no-Hi (成人の日) – A Japanese holiday held annually on the second Monday of January. It is held to congratulate and encourage all those who have reached or will reach the age of maturity between 2 April of the previous year and 1 April of the current year.
Seimei Kikyō (晴明紋/晴明桔梗) – A pentacle that is the personal seal ofAbe-no-Seimei, later becoming the symbol for theOnmyōryō (the government ministry department for the practice ofonmyōdō, or the Bureau of Taoist Geomancy) and foronmyōdō itself, given its association with the Five Elements.
Seirei (精霊,lit.'Soul') – A general umbrella term for the essence, spirit or soul of a nonspecific thing.
Seisatsu* (制札) – A signboard containing announcements and rules for worshipers.
Seishinkai (精神界,lit.'spirit world') – A spiritual, non-corporeal world that coexists with the material world, that human beings inhabit, but in a different dimension.
Senjafuda (千社札,lit.'thousand shrine tags') –Votive slips, stickers or placards (andofuda) posted on the gates or buildings of Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples in Japan. The stickers bear the name of the worshipper, and can be purchased pre-printed with common names at temples and shrines throughout Japan, as well as at stationery stores and video game centres.Senjafuda were originally made from wooden slats, but have been made of paper since theEdo period.
Sessha* (摂社) – A smaller shrine housing akami having a strong relationship with that of thehonsha (the main shrine). A synonym ofmassha.
Shide* (垂,紙垂 and四手) – A zigzag-shaped paper streamer often attached to ashimenawa and totamagushi, and is used in rituals.
Shigai (絲鞋) –Moccasin-like footwear, made from silk with leather soles. Originally worn by children and young woman of the aristocratic-class, it is now (or, at-least was) worn bymiko in Shinto rituals.
Shika (鹿) – A deer. In Shinto, they are considered messengers of thekami.
Shikome (黄泉醜女) – Hags sent by Izanami to pursue Izanagi for shaming her. Their numbers differ between theKojiki and theNihon Shoki.
Shimekazari (注連飾り) – Awreath made of braided-shimenawa rope with auspicious additions interwoven into it.Shimekazari are put up as decorations forJapanese New Year, along withkadomatsu.
Shiniki (神域,lit.'divine domain') – The perimeters of a shrine or a place wherekami dwell. It is also used to refer to any place of significant importance.
Shinkan (神官,lit.'divine official') – A person serving a certain god or working as a government official at a facility where God is worshipped.Shinkan is also used as a term designating a Shinto priest (a person involved in religious services and office work in a shrine).
Shingaku (神額) – A plaque mounted to the front of thetorii or main hall of a shrine, bearing the name of the shrine.
Shinko (神狐,lit.'divine fox') – Similar tokomainu,shinko are twin dual statues of foxes, usually depicted as having white fur, who serve Inari Ōkami as messengers.
Shinkyō (神鏡,lit.'divine mirror') – A mirror that is often included in shrine altars and home altars; they are believed to represent thekami themselves.
Shinra Banshō (森羅万象) – A Shinto-Buddhist term, meaning "all things existing in the universe": According to Shinto, thekami exist withinshinra banshō.
Shio (塩,lit.'salt') – In Shinto, salt is used for ritual purification of locations and people (harae, specificallyshubatsu (修祓)), and small piles of salt are placed in dishes by the entrance of establishments for the two-fold purposes of warding off evil and attracting patrons.
Shiryō/shirei (死霊,lit.'dead spirit') – The spirit of a dead person. The terms are used in contrast toikiryō, which refers to a disembodied spirit that leaves the body of a still-living person and haunts other people or places, sometimes across great distances.
Shintai (神体,lit.'divine body') – A sacred object, but also natural objects such as trees and mountains, which represents thekami for worship.
Shrine – The English word that translates several more specialized Japanese words (see articleShinto shrine). Any structure housing akami.
Shinbutsu kakuri (神仏隔離) – The tendency in medieval and early modern Japan to keep particularkami separate from any form or manifestation of Buddhism.
Shinbutsu shūgō (神仏習合) – The syncretism of Buddhism and local religious beliefs, the normal state of things before theshinbutsu bunri.
Shinsen (神饌) – Offerings of foods given to Shinto shrines orkamidana for thekami.
Shio (塩) – In Shinto,salt is used for offerings at Shinto shrines and a household'skamidana,ritual purification of locations and people, and small piles of salt are placed in dishes by the entrance of establishments for the twofold purpose of warding off evil and attracting patrons.
Shubatsu (修祓) – A ceremony involving salt that is conducted immediately prior to rituals in order to purify participants, food offerings andtamagushi, of sins and defilement. See alsomisogi.
Shugo Jigoku (衆合地獄) – The sixth level ofJigoku, where sinners who have committed murder, theft, degeneration, drunkenness, lying, and blasphemy are sent.
Shuin (朱印,lit.'vermillion seal') – A commemorative seal stamp given to worshippers and visitors to Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples in Japan. The seal stamps are often collected inshuinchō that are sold at shrines and temples.
State Shinto – A term first used after World War II to broadly classify Shinto ideals, rituals and institutions created by the pre-war government to promote the divinity of the emperor and the uniqueness of Japan.
Shura (修羅) – The semi-divine/Ashura realm of incarnation, the second-highest realm on the wheel of reincarnation. See alsorinne.
Suikan (水干) – An informal garment, like a tunic, worn by males of the Japanese nobility in the Heian period, as outerwear; an informal garment, like a tunic, worn by males of the Japanese nobility in the Heian period, as outerwear.
Susanoo-no-Mikoto (須佐之男 /須佐能乎) – The multifacetedkami of storms, the sea, open fields, the harvest, marriage, and love, the son of Izanagi and the younger brother of Amaterasu Ōkami and Tsukuyomi.
Suzu (鈴,lit.'bell') – A round, hollow Shinto bell that contains pellets that sound when agitated.
Taiko (太鼓,lit.'great drum') – A term for a broad range of Japanese percussion drums. Thetaiko drum has been an integral part of JapaneseShinto andBuddhist religious practices andfolklore for centuries.
Tamagushi* (玉串,lit.'jewel skewer') – A form of offering made from asakaki-tree branch and strips of paper, silk, or cotton.
Tamashii (魂) – A soul within its proper body, encompassing one's mind, heart and soul. The opposite oftamashii ismitama.
Tamaya (霊屋,lit.'spirit house') – An altar used in Shinto-style ancestor worship, dedicated in the memory of deceased forebears. It generally has a mirror symbolizing the spirits of the deceased or a tablet bearing their names and is used not only to enshrine blood relatives, but also to honor respected non-family members..
Tanuki (狸) – A mammal native to Japan (and Asia (as a subspecies of theAsian raccoon dog)) and to Japanese culture and folklore since ancient times. It is known in folklore to be mischievous and jolly, a master of disguise, and with a taste forsake. It is also regarded as a Japanese art animal, appearing in many different forms of both modern and traditional art.
Tanzaku (短冊) – A small strip of paper that wishes are written on, and is hung on bamboo or other trees duringTanabata.
Tatarigami (祟り神) – Powerful evil spirits that bring calamity.
Tate (盾,lit.'shield') – Ashield, sometimes dedicated to shrines, and indicative of akami's power to ward-off and protect from negative influences.
Tatsu (竜/龍,lit.'Dragon') – A mythical creature that is seen as a symbol for great power, wisdom, leadership and success, and is said to bring strength, luck, and fortune.
Tengu (天狗) – A type of legendary creature found in Japanese folk religion. They are considered a type ofyōkai orkami. Thetengu were originally thought to take the forms of birds of prey, and they are traditionally depicted with both human and avian characteristics.
Tengu-kakushi (天狗隠し) – A term used to refer to the mysterious disappearance or death of a person that happens when an angeredtengu takes a person away.
Tenkan (天冠,lit.'heavenly crown') – A design of golden-filigree crown worn by Buddha and celestial beings, such astennyo. Also worn by imperial princesses in the Heian period. Now worn bymiko during formal occasions such as festivals.
Tenne (纏衣, lit. a "Wrapping Raiment" or "Heavenly Raiment") – Similar to thehagoromo.
Teru teru bōzu (照る照る坊主) – A small traditional handmade doll made of white paper or cloth that Japanese farmers began hanging outside of their window by a string. This talisman is supposed to have magical powers to bring good weather and to stop or prevent a rainy day.
Thetide jewels – TheKanju and theManju; two magical gems that the seakami Watatsumi or Ryūjin used to control the tides.
Tōrō (灯籠) – A lantern at a shrine or Buddhist temple.
Toshidana (年棚,lit.'Annum Shelf' or'Annum Alter') – An altar specifically used for the New-Year, to commemorate atoshigami (below). Offerings include round cakes made of pounded rice, bottles ofsake, persimmons, tangerines, etc. See alsoKamidana (above).
Toso (屠蘇) – Aspiced medicinalsake, traditionally drunk during New Year celebrations in Japan.
Totsuka-no-Tsurugi (十拳剣) – Any sword that is ten hand widths long. In Japanese mythology, numerous deities own a sword of this kind.
Tsuina (追儺) – A type of ritual of exorcism, specifically one performed during a funeral, by ahōsōshi to keep away flesh-eating, corpse-stealingyōkai away from the body being buried.Tsuina shares its origins withSetsubun inNuo rituals from China.
Tsukimi (月見,lit.'moon viewing') – A festival honouring the autumn moon. The celebration of thefull moon typically takes place on the 15th day of the eighth month of the traditionalJapanese calendar; thewaxing moon is celebrated on the 13th day of the ninth month.
Tsukubai (蹲踞) – Awashbasin provided at the entrance to a holy place for visitors to purify themselves by the ritual washing of hands and rinsing of the mouth.
Tsukumogami (付喪神) –yōkai who came to being from tools that have acquired akami or spirit. According to theIse Monogatari Shō, there is a theory originally from theOnmyōki (陰陽記) that foxes and tanuki, among other beings, that have lived for at a hundred years and changed forms are considered tsukumogami.
Tsukuyomi-no-Mikoto (月読命 /月読尊,lit.'moon reader') – Thekami of the moon, the son of Izanagi, the younger brother of Amaterasu Ōkami, and the older brother of Susanoo-no-Mikoto.
Tsumairi ortsumairi-zukuri (妻入 or妻入造,lit.'Spouses Structure') – A style of construction in which the building has its main entrance on the side which runs perpendicular to the roof's ridge (gabled side).
Tsumi (罪,lit.'sin') – A violation committed against legal, social moral, ethical, or religious rules. It is most often used in the religious and moral sense. See alsoamatsu tsumi,kunitsu tsumi,imi, andkegare.
Tsuru (鶴,lit.'crane') – A species of bird that is native to Japan and to Japanese culture.
Ubusunagami (産土神,lit.'birthplace deity') – A type of tutelary deity, a guardian god or spirit of a particular place in Shinto. The termubusuna-mode (visiting one's own birth god) became widely used for visiting one's hometown and shrine. See alsosore andujigami.
Waraningyō (藁人形) – Depending-upon their intended use,Wara-Ningyō can be used either for cleansing a person of sins and impurities, casting spells to protect or empower, or inflict a curse upon another person via ritual impalement. Originating from Taoist rituals, they are nailed to trees to curse people, duringushi no toki mairi.
Yata no Kagami (八咫鏡) – A sacred mirror that is part of the Imperial Regalia of Japan. It is said to be housed in Ise Grand Shrine in Mie Prefecture, Japan. TheYata no Kagami represents wisdom or honesty, depending on the source.
Yari (槍,lit.'spear') – A spear, sometimes dedicated to shrines (along with other weapons, such asKatana andNaginata), and indicative of akami's power to ward-off negative influences.
Yashikigami (屋敷神) – Akami of a specific plot of land, house, household, etc.
Yashiro (社) – A generic term forshrine, similar tojinja.
Yōkai (妖怪) – An umbrella term that covers many supernatural beings,Yōkai can also be used when referring to humans, animals, objects, and evenkami.
Yōma (妖魔) – A type of ghost, phantom, apparition, monster, or demon.
Zōni (雑煮) –A Japanese soup containingmochi rice cakes; associated with the Japanese New Year and its tradition ofOsechi ceremonial foods.
Zuijin (随身) –Kami warrior-guardian figures. They are often depicted to be holding bows and arrows, or wearing three silver rings. The name was originally applied to the bodyguards of the Emperor of Japan.
Zukuri (造,lit.'architecture') – A style of construction a building, that a shrine has usually been built in.
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