Kami Maybe? (This Episode’s Bananas)

Did a Shinto priest’s assistant really see two Kami enter the shrine on that warm, fine day? Or were they just ghosts joy-riding in a Cadillac? Are bananas really that radioactive? And why is purple hair so hard to maintain? This ghost story about a potentially haunted Shinto shrine is on YouTube:

Or listen right here:

Episode Show Notes

A (Potentially Haunted) Shinto Shrine in America

Did you know there was a Shinto shrine in Washington state? It’s really quite stunning. Tim provided us with some nice photos that he took while he was there.

Are Japanese Kami like Spirits?

The strange ethereal forms Tim saw may be ghosts, they may be Kami. So, what are Kami? The term “kami” can refer to beings or spiritual essences that reside in natural elements, like mountains, rivers, trees, and animals, as well as ancestors and mythological figures. Kami have an influence on both the natural world and people’s individual lives. They exist in our Earthly realm, yet they are deities of a sort, but they’re not omnipotent, nor are they perfect. Kami are neither benevolent or malevolent, but are seen as having their own distinct natures.

The concept of kami is central to Shinto practice, and people often perform rituals, offerings, and festivals to honor them and seek their blessings. Individual kami are often associated with specific shrines where they are worshipped. So, maybe it’s possible they could haunt this Shinto shrine by rolling up in a tan Cadillac. Who are we mortals to attempt to understand these things?

Bananas!

We learned a ton about bananas from Tim. A lot of stuff we couldn’t include in the episode. But, Tim isn’t the only banana expert out there. Have you ever considered writing cute notes to your kids on bananas? This hilarious article outlines exactly how to do just that.

And, if you’d like to know what else is possible with fruit, check out this awkward fruit basket request.

Have You Ever Visited A Haunted Shinto Shrine?

Hainted Loves, what do you think? If you have a personal ghost story, please submit it here, and your story could be featured on a future episode of Homespun Haints true paranormal podcast. Until next time, have a spooky day!