Clans and Religion in Ancient Japan presents the latest research on the origin of Japanese religion and the clans in charge of religious services in ancient Japan. This research is based on a new analytical perspective and utilizes not only well-known historical manuscripts which previous research relies upon, but also mythology, archaeological antiquities, pictorial materials and genealogies. The book hopes to differentiate between the religious systems of Japan and those of other Asian countries, and also between eastern and western cultures.