Does Japan use music to worship?

Shintoism, Japan's indigenous religion, employs music and dance extensively in its rituals. Music is deemed to have a mystical power that draws divinities to participate in celebrations and supplication. The Shinto faith considers music to be an essential part of worship and communication with the divine.

Musical ceremonies are part and parcel of Shinto observances, and musical instruments like drums and flutes hold immense significance. Drums, in particular, are considered sacred and are played rhythmically to rouse deities' emotions and draw them to the ceremonies.

Shinto music is diverse and encompasses both ancient ritual music and modern adaptations that preserve traditional elements. The solemn Kagura music is the epitome of ritual music, performed by priests and priestesses during major festivals. Gagaku, a courtly music genre, merges indigenous Japanese melodies with Chinese influences and is played during ceremonies of utmost significance.

The influence of Shinto music has seeped into other areas of Japanese culture, including Noh theatre and folk rituals. Japanese music retains a close connection to the nation's Shinto roots, and musical components from these rituals continue to reverberate in contemporary artistic practices.