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An Introduction to Japanese Shinto with Dr. Gavin Campbell

An Introduction to Japanese Shinto with Dr. Gavin Campbell


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Can't make this time? A video recording will be sent to all participants after the seminar.

Shinto is a religious ideology, born in small villages in Japan from an appreciation of the natural world.  This conversation provides a broad overview of its unique history, practices, and its place in contemporary Japan. 

Since ancient times Shinto has played a vital role in the spiritual and cultural life of the Japanese people. Our discussion begins by exploring the history of Shinto, from its ancient roots to its complex, evolving relationship with Buddhism, and its role in Japan’s twentieth-century imperial aggression. We then turn to contemporary Shinto, exploring how it has adapted to modern spiritual needs. Finally, we look into the daily workings of a Shinto shrine, the proper way to visit, and the meaning of what you will see, hear and experience there. 

Led by an expert on Japanese history, culture, and religion, Gavin James Campbell, this Conversation will reveal the broad contours of Japan’s ancient faith. Designed to inform curiosity as well as future travels, participants will come away with an increased appreciation for the richness of Japanese Shinto.

Gavin received a Ph.D. in history from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, and came to Kyoto in 2001. He is a Ph.D. professor of history at Doshisha University. His teaching and research revolve around Japan's cultural encounters with the West, particularly during the Edo, Meiji, Taisho and early Showa periods (1600-1940), and he has published on the history of foreign tourism and of Protestant missionaries in Japan. To further explore Japan's global cultural encounters, he is currently writing a book on the history of Japanese menswear from the 1600s through the early 20th century. He is also an expert on Kyoto geisha culture and a frequent participant in geisha entertainment.

This conversation is suitable for all ages.

90 minutes, including a 30 minute Q&A.

Customer Reviews

Based on 11 reviews
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(11)
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K
Kikoh Incense LLC (Glen Ellyn, US)
Really Great Introduction to Shinto

This was another of Dr. Campbell's very thoughtful and executed lectures. I appreciated his many slide that illustrate his points as well as his dry sense of humor.

M
Muriel Dimock (Lakeville, US)

Guest did not leave comment

M
Margaret Fearey (Milton, US)

Extremely well-organized & informative. Excellent visuals.

J
J (Vancouver, CA)
Excellent look at Shinto = learnt lots

All the seminars I've attended with Gavin have been excellent. He is a great presenter and quite delightful as well.

D
Debra B. (Denver, US)
Shinto in Japan

I missed the presentation but eagerly await the video. Dr. Campbell is always excellent.

Customer Reviews

Based on 11 reviews
100%
(11)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
0%
(0)
K
Kikoh Incense LLC (Glen Ellyn, US)
Really Great Introduction to Shinto

This was another of Dr. Campbell's very thoughtful and executed lectures. I appreciated his many slide that illustrate his points as well as his dry sense of humor.

M
Muriel Dimock (Lakeville, US)

Guest did not leave comment

M
Margaret Fearey (Milton, US)

Extremely well-organized & informative. Excellent visuals.

J
J (Vancouver, CA)
Excellent look at Shinto = learnt lots

All the seminars I've attended with Gavin have been excellent. He is a great presenter and quite delightful as well.

D
Debra B. (Denver, US)
Shinto in Japan

I missed the presentation but eagerly await the video. Dr. Campbell is always excellent.