In Hayao Miyazaki’s animated film My Neighbor Totoro, Shinto influences are prominently featured throughout the storyline. The plot centers around two young sisters, Satsuki and Mei, who move to the countryside with their father and encounter magical creatures known as Kami.
These gentle forest spirits serve as guardians of nature, embodying Shinto’s respect for the environment and the spiritual significance of natural elements.
Shintoism is the oldest indigenous religion of Japan, dating back to the 3rd century B.C.E. It is characterized by its lack of a founder or religious text, instead representing a set of principles that can complement other belief systems.
Shinto is Japan’s oldest indigenous religion, tracing its origins back to the 3rd century B.C.E. Unlike many religions, Shinto has no single founder or religious text but is defined by a set of principles that emphasize reverence for nature, spirits, and harmony with the natural world. These beliefs can be practiced alongside other religions, reflecting a syncretic approach to spirituality.
My Neighbor Totoro Shinto Themes
The film’s themes align closely with Shinto beliefs, emphasizing the importance of harmony with nature, respect for spirits, and the interconnectedness of all living beings. The spirits or Kami symbolize the spiritual presence inherent in the natural world, fostering a sense of wonder and reverence for the environment.
Additionally, the strong emphasis on family bonds and the value of familial relationships in My Neighbor Totoro reflects Shinto’s emphasis on the importance of family and community in Japanese society.
Who are Kami in Shinto?
Shintō, often translated as “the way of kami” or “the way of the Gods,” is deeply rooted in the belief in kami—spirits inhabiting natural elements like trees and mountains. In Hayao Miyazaki’s film My Neighbor Totoro, the Camphor tree serves as a dwelling for Totoro and other kami, embodying the essence of these spirits. Just as in Shintō belief, kami are perceived as formless entities inhabiting various aspects of nature such as the sun, moon, wind, and thunder.
The film beautifully portrays the reverence for kami through the interaction with the Camphor tree and the mystical creatures residing within it. This depiction mirrors the Shintō rituals that express deep respect for the sacred aspects of nature.
In Shintō, kami are seen as the essence of spirit present in all things, including living beings, natural phenomena, and objects. This belief is exemplified in My Neighbor Totoro as the characters, particularly the young sisters Satsuki and Mei, develop a profound connection with the forest spirits and learn to appreciate the spiritual presence in their surroundings.
Shinto Practice
My Neighbor Totoro vividly portrays the significance of Shintō rituals and beliefs, showcasing characters engaging in acts of reverence and gratitude towards kami, or spirits.
Mei’s heartfelt ritual to pray for her mother’s recovery exemplifies this, highlighting the connection between the spiritual and natural worlds. In addition, When Mei is thought to have drowned, Granny prays with her sandals in her hand. The film beautifully captures the essence of Shintō by emphasizing a deep respect for kami and the spiritual significance of nature.
In Japanese society, Shintō is ingrained in social life and personal motivations rather than formal belief systems. This is evident in the Kusakabe family’s practice of Shintō rituals, such as their visit to the giant old Camphor tree to offer greetings and gratitude.
Additionally, when Satsuki stops at a shrine during a rainstorm, she respectfully asks for permission to stand there, reflecting the respect she has for sacred spaces in Shintō tradition. These scenes depict the Japanese value system and the cultural significance of Shintō in everyday life and illustrate the profound connection between people and nature.
What is a Komainu?
Komainu, also known as “Korean dogs” or “Chinese lions,” are a pair of sacred stone animals often placed in front of shrines.
In My Neighbor Totoro, subtle details such as the presence of a shrine and a Komainu sculpture hold significant cultural and symbolic meanings. As Mr. Kusakabe drives the moving truck, a shrine is briefly seen in front, signifying the spiritual presence in the surrounding environment.
Similarly, when Mei stares at a shrine with a Komainu at the bus stop, it may symbolize the protective role of the shrine’s kami over the girls at that moment.
Originally, they were believed to safeguard the sacred buildings from malevolent forces and impurities. These subtle visual cues in the film reflect the cultural significance of shrines and the protective symbolism associated with Komainu in Japanese tradition.
Totoro gives back
The film My Neighbor Totoro beautifully reflects Shinto beliefs in rituals and reverence toward kami, as seen through the interactions between the characters and the forest spirits. For instance, when Satsuki offers an umbrella to Totoro at the bus stop, it mirrors the act of giving offerings to Kami at shrines.
In return, Totoro demonstrates reciprocity by giving Satsuki a package of acorns. This act symbolizes a form of spiritual exchange. Moreover, Totoro performs a ritual to help the acorns grow, illustrating the belief in Kami’s ability to influence natural phenomena.
Additionally, when Satsuki’s sister Mei goes missing, Totoro answers her prayers by assisting in the search, highlighting the spiritual connection between humans and kami. Through these acts, the film portrays the essence of Shinto rituals and the belief in the benevolence of kami in aiding individuals during times of need.
What are your Thoughts?
Do you have other examples of Shinto belief in My Neighbor Totoro? Let me know in the comments below. Also, check out the related article: The Legacy of My Neighbor Totoro: Movie Review and Recap.
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