The history of Japan -PDF book

The history of Japan

"The History of Japan" is a comprehensive and detailed account of the religious practices and beliefs of the Sintoists in Japan. 

The author, Engelbert Kaempfer, provides insight into the unique aspects of the Sintoist temples, which are not attended by priests but by laymen who may not fully understand the religion they practice

 Despite this, there are some Canusis within the Sintoist community who take it upon themselves to educate the people and preach sermons at the temples.

During his time in Japan, Kaempfer encountered one such Canusi who traveled from Miaco to preach at the temples of Tensi and Suwa. This Canusi delivered daily sermons to explain the Law or Commandment Nacottominotarrai, but Kaempfer notes that these sermons were not always well-received or understood by the worshippers.

The book, originally published in 1906, offers a glimpse into the religious practices and beliefs of the Sintoists in Japan during the late 17th and early 18th centuries. Translated into English by John Gaspar Scheuhzer, with additional contributions from Simon Delboe, Hamond Gibben, and William Ramsden, "The History of Japan" provides valuable insights into a lesser-known aspect of Japanese history and culture.