Japan has two main religions: Shinto and Buddhism. Although many people today say they have no special belief, most participate in both Shinto and Buddhist customs and rituals. For example, most weddings ceremonies are performed according to Shinto ritual, while funerals usually follow Buddhist practice. The Shinto religion is native to Japan. It began in ancient history and myths. People believed that spiritual forces (kami) existed in nature-in trees and mountains, the sea or the wind. The deep respect that Japanese people have for the nature and the environment is reflected in their names. Most Japanese people names are related to nature.

     Before the first Shinto shrines were built, people went to natural places to honor the kami. Today most homes have a small "god shelf" were food is offered to the gods. Buddhism began in India and was brought to Japan (via China and Korea) around the middle of the 6th century. Buddhist temples contain religious statues (butsuzo) and visitors to temples burn incense in front of the statues.