What is the primary Japanese religion?

The majority of Japanese people regard themselves as Shintoist, Buddhist or both. Shinto is an ancient religion, as old as the culture of Japan, while Buddhism came to the island in the sixth century.

Shinto and Buddhism exist together peacefully in Japan. However, the average Japanese person does not spend a great deal of time focusing on religion during the course of his life. Religious ceremonies come into play at birth, weddings and funerals, but not on a daily or weekly basis. Some Japanese people visit temples or shrines on the first day of the New Year in religious observance.