This work investigates the foundational role of Shinto in the development of Japanese cultural identity and its enduring influence on the nation's spiritual landscape. Jean Herbert, a scholar of Eastern religions, utilizes extensive field research and primary source analysis to map the complex relationship between Shinto rituals, mythology, and the social structures of Japan. The text argues that Shinto is not merely a historical relic but a living system that continues to shape the Japanese worldview and ethical framework.

Scholars and students of Japanese religion frequently cite this text as a comprehensive, albeit dense, examination of Shinto traditions. It is widely regarded as a foundational resource for those seeking to understand the intersection of indigenous belief systems and Japanese cultural history.