For the past century, Japan has been a center of attention due to its rapid industrialization and modernization. Still, certain aspects of the nation's culture remain an enigma to outsiders; particularly, Japan's religious foundations. To most of the world the ancient spirituality of this modern nation remains a mystery. Raising this ancient veil of secrecy, Dr. Isao Ebihara examines myths and legends of Japan, from antiquity to today's modern tales of anime and manga. He explores the culture's shrouded world of ghosts, spirits and supernatural phenomena, and discovers the very roots of Japan's faith. Discover how the ancient Japanese formed their detailed illustrations of the supernatural; images that survive to this day. What kind of afterlife did they envision? Do they still believe in the supernatural in the 21st century? Are there any similarities to the spiritual world that Westerner's detail? The answers to these questions and more are found in this fascinating book.