Shinto is Japan's indigenous religion that focuses on ritual rather than doctrine. It is considered a way of life rather than a religion by many Japanese. Shinto has no single founder or sacred texts but instead originated from ancient animistic beliefs that respected nature and sacred sites associated with kami (spirits or deities). Major Shinto sects like Tenrikyo and Konkokyo have unique doctrines while still participating in broader Shinto practices. Tenrikyo emphasizes acceptance and interconnected principles while Konkokyo sees all things as relating to the Parent God and aims to reduce suffering through gratitude and prayer.