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"Shinto gods" are called kami. They are sacred spirits which take the form of things and concepts important to life, such as wind, rain, mountains, trees, rivers and fertility. Humans become kami after they die and are revered by their families as ancestral kami. The kami of extraordinary people are even enshrined at some shrines. The Sun Goddess Amaterasu is considered Shinto's most important kami.

The Four Affirmations' of Shinto.

1.  Tradition and family must be honored.
2.  Love of nature  Most shrines are built in groves on the edge of the village, near a waterfall, near a distinctive rock on the seashore.
   
3.  Physical cleanliness
   
4.  Festivals and ceremonies must be honored. Japanese festivals are joyous occassions.  These events are intended as entertainment for the benefit of the kami as well as for the participants.