The Spirit of Shinto

“If you’re curious about Japanese culture, or if like me you’ve been drawn to the spiritual atmosphere of shrines, this book is a wonderful starting point. It doesn’t try to be exhaustive, but it opens a door. For me, it deepened the meaning behind the experiences I’ve had in Japan, and gave me new ways to appreciate the rituals, symbols, and harmony that Shinto brings into daily life.” —@Raikeehime“Surprisingly refreshing, not just another dry overview of religion, but a gentle guide into how nature, ritual, and harmony weave into everyday life…[it] doesn’t demand you adopt beliefs, but offers invitation: to respect nature, respect each other, and live more intentionally.” —Kids R. Us Blog“In The Spirit of Shinto, longtime Japan resident and author Hector Garcia offers an engaging introduction to the history, principles, and continuing influence of Shintoism in Japan. Garcia takes readers on a time-travelling journey to witness Shinto’s rich history and enduring cultural influence firsthand, as well as to discover ways in which it can help us find harmony with nature and each other as we navigate our daily lives.” —Asian Art Newspaper

Hector Garcia

Award-winning author Hector Garcia has lived in Japan for over two decades and has published many books on Japanese traditions and popular culture. He is the co-author of several international bestsellers including Ikigai: The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life, The Book of Ichigo Ichie and The Ikigai Journey: A Practical Guide to Finding Happiness and Purpose the Japanese Way.

Russell Calvert

Russell Calvert has a masters degree in translation studies from Pompeu Fabra University (Barcelona). He has 25 years TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other Languages) experience, including posts at ESADE Business School (Barcelona) and Salalah College of Applied Sciences (Oman). He was the subtitler, translator and interpreter for the 2012 Mecal International Short Film Festival of Barcelona.