Lecture and Demonstration “Spirit of Japan: Shinto & Gagaku”: An Official Commemorative Event of the 90th Anniversary of Japan-Canada Diplomatic Relations

On Sept. 19, a lecture demonstration entitled “Spirit of Japan: Shinto & Gagaku”, by Mr. Moriyasu Ito, Chief of the Meiji Shrine’s International Relations Division, as well as two more representatives from the internationally celebrated shrine, was held at The Japan Foundation, Toronto. The event was an official commemorative event of the 90th anniversary of Japan-Canada diplomatic relations. The lecture gave an overview on the current state of Shintoism in Japan and its influence on Japanese spirituality and daily life. As well, an explanation of three instruments from Gagaku – music that is an integral part of Shinto – was also provided. An actual performance and demonstration was also given, allowing the audience to enjoy music that is different from Western traditions, and to even touch the musical instruments.  The same lecture was given in the afternoon of Sept. 19 at the University of Toronto's Department of the Study of Religion.