Introduction: Shinto and Daoism (01:58)

FREE PREVIEW

Approximately 100 million people follow the faiths of Daoism and Shinto. John McCarthy will examine the shrines of these religions as well as Confucianism.

Mount Tai (11:09)

One of China's five sacred mountains is located five hours south of Beijing. Individuals burn incense and pray to Buddhist, Confucius, and Daoist deities. Followers climb four or five hours to ascend the South Gate of Heaven.

White Cloud Temple (07:37)

Elements of Daoism, Confucianism, and folk religions blend together in modern day China. After the Cultural Revolution, many temples were converted for secular use. The Three Pure Ones of the Universe include the Deity of Origin, Human Protection, and Morality.

Temple of Confucius (08:49)

Daoism offers a social and moral framework for living in the modern world. The temple in Qufu has expanded to include nine major courtyards and many halls. Zhang Long describes the teachings of the philosopher.

Itsukushima Shrine (06:24)

The Shinto religion focuses on humanity's relationship with the natural world; deer are considered sacred messengers. Located in Hiroshima Bay, the island has been worshiped as a god. The torii has been destroyed many times due to severe weather conditions.

Fushimi Inari Shrine (08:13)

Inari is the god of financial success and rice in the Shinto religion. Located in Kyoto, the shrine possess thousands of torii gates that line the path up the mountain. McCarthy tries sushi named after the god.

Tosho-gu (09:57)

Legend tells how a serpent helped a monk cross a ravine at the site of the sacred bridge. Tosho-gu remains one of the most lavish buildings in Japan. Tokugawa Leyasu is enshrined.

Credits: Shinto & Daoism (00:32)

Credits: Shinto & Daoism