Mura matsuri – 村祭

“Muramatsuri” is a festival held in autumn in various parts of Japan to thank the gods of the land for a good harvest of agriculture (mainly rice) and to pray for a bountiful harvest the following year.

Japanese gods are called “Yaoyorozunokami” (eight million gods), and they are found in various places such as rice paddies, fields, mountains, oceans, kamado (a place where fire is handled), and so on. Although usually invisible, people give thanks to the gods by inviting them to their homes and holding festivals.

Even though Japan has been influenced by the introduction of Buddhism and Christianity, it has never lost its reverence for the Shinto belief in the yaoyorozu no kami (eight million gods). Furthermore, in the 21st century, animistic culture continues to blend seamlessly with Japan’s high-tech orientation, which can be attributed to Japan’s cultural diversity, inclusiveness, and deep sense of coexistence with nature.

Shintoism has long been rooted in the worship of nature and the veneration of ancestors, with animistic beliefs that gods reside in mountains, rivers, trees, and other elements of nature. This deep connection with daily life and local communities allowed Shinto to coexist harmoniously with foreign religions. For instance, when Buddhism arrived in the 6th century, instead of conflicting with Shinto, it merged, creating a unique religious tradition called shinbutsu-shūgō (syncretism of Shinto and Buddhism), where the two coexisted and shaped Japan’s spiritual landscape.

By Indiana jo – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link

Even in the 21st century, this animistic worldview remains deeply embedded in Japanese culture, naturally blending with modern technology and subculture. For example, many anime and video games feature themes of spirits and the power of nature, reflecting Shintoist values. This demonstrates that the belief in spirits residing in natural objects continues to be a part of people’s daily lives. Furthermore, Japan’s high-tech industry also reflects a desire to harmonize technology with nature. For instance, initiatives in environmental technology and renewable energy embody the same animistic respect for nature.

Unlike monotheistic religions with exclusive doctrines, Japan’s religious view is polytheistic and inclusive, allowing it to absorb foreign ideas and beliefs without rejecting its own traditions. As a result, even in the high-tech world of the 21st century, Shinto and animistic beliefs are naturally accepted and continue to evolve alongside culture and technology. This fusion helps preserve Japan’s unique religious identity while fostering a forward-looking society.

At that time, people sing, dance, and enjoy themselves with the gods using a flute called fue and a drum called taiko.

The drums make a “don” sound and the flutes make a “hyarara” sound.

After the autumn festival, the villagers begin to prepare for winter.