This work is a detailed study of the modern Shinto, the religion of Japan, in both its state and sect forms, and is of particular interest for its account of the evolution of Shintoism into a vital political force in the period leading up to World War II.

This classic work, long out of print, was the first detailed study of modern Shinto, the religion of Japan, in both its state and sect forms, and is of particular interest for its account of the evolution of Shinto into a vital political force in the period leading up to World War II. After describing the early and medieval forms of Shinto, Holtom outlines the way in which traditional Shinto - unorganised and neglected at the time of the Meiji Restoration - was subsequently used by the new government as a force for reunifying the country through 'integrating the national mind and glorifying the national destiny'. Following the legal separation of state and sect Shinto in 1882, Holtom shows how state Shinto grew steadily with the growth of modern Japan, becoming in his words 'a factor that could not be safely overlooked in making an inventory of the important items involved in the extension of Japanese political control and cultural influence on the Asiatic Continent and elsewhere'. With Japan in the ascendant and Shinto enjoying a renewed prominence, this book is as important now as when it was written.