Most Japanese shrines are place for nature's God(Local god).
So,shrines exist in the front of forest,mountain,and so on.
Ancient Japanese people built shrines because they needed to protect nature.
They had been felt power of nature's gods.
Care for shrine/visit shrine/dedicate thanks = Nature worship
It was wonderful nature protection system in Japan.
If we don't have shrines,all area will be destroyed by land buying and selling.
Forest means water too.
Woods contain much water under their soil.
So,we need small water bowl and a pair of plant in our Kamidana.
Kamidana is important relay points for local god's job.
They are always monitoring our neighborhoods.
Kamidana is small shrine in our home.
It is not a ornament for personal joy or success.
Some people are misunderstanding its meaning.
Just own Kamidana / decorate Kamidana = You just want to feel Japanese atmosphere
Changing water everyday is the most important part of Kamidana ceremony.
Kamidana is sacred place for local gods where you are living.
So,my kamidana is place for my area's gods in NJ,because I am living in here.
This is very important Japanese SHINTO's concept.
photo by photolibrary