Synopsis

Japan is a land steeped in symbolism; countless places, objects, and traditions are imbued with auspicious meaning. The beckoning cat, or *maneki neko*, and the celebratory meal shared on New Year's Day are but two examples. Today, we speak with Shintani Takanori, a scholar who has dedicated many years to the study of Japanese folk customs. He illuminates the rituals and beliefs surrounding shrine visits, unraveling the intricate significance behind familiar practices. Furthermore, he discusses