What do Japanese people believe?
Japanese Beliefs & Spirituality
Japan is a land where ancient and living faiths exist side by side — and often, beautifully blended within the same person.
In this session, we explore how Japanese people observe multiple beliefs and religion throughout the year. Brief history of how these traditions wove together over centuries into something uniquely Japanese. You'll learn how Japanese alternate visiting Shinto shrines to Buddhist temples naturally with deep respect to both religions. While adapting foreign philosophies and thought leadership such as Lao Tsu and Confucius.
Topics covered:
Observing “Religion” is not a formal practice for most Japanese
Zen Buddhism and it’s influence on Japanese society
Japanese native spiritual practice - Shintoism and it’s origin
Chinese philosophy and thought leadership
Shinbutsu Shugo - blending of faiths and keeping the harmony
How these faiths are practiced in daily life in Japan
About the Host:
Miho was born and raised in Tokyo, Japan. With family in both Tokyo and Osaka, Miho observed the different cultures and traditions kept within Japan.
When she moved to the United States in 2004, the biggest culture shock she experienced was the food.
In Japan, food is approached with deep attention — not just for nourishment, but as a shared, communal practice for health and wellbeing. This inspired her to pursue a career as a Registered Dietitian to improve the health and wellbeing of others.
While living in the U.S., she continued practicing Japanese traditions — playing shamisen (a traditional Japanese string instrument), taiko (traditional Japanese drumming), nagauta singing, and dance. She also practiced Aikido, a Japanese martial art, for seven years.
Before opening House Nine in 2019, she told Sarah (co-owner) that her dream was to host a wellness retreat in Japan. After six years of dreaming, she will be leading the Japan Wellness Retreat in November 2026.