Orikuchi Shinobu

Japanese ethnologist who redefined Shinto studies through groundbreaking folkloric research

Under the pen name Shaku Chōkū, Orikuchi Shinobu (1887-1953) reconstructed ancient Japanese spiritual practices through innovative interdisciplinary research combining literature, anthropology, and linguistics. His marebito concept (divine strangers) reshaped understanding of Japan's spiritual origins.

As professor at Keio University, Orikuchi developed minzokugaku (folkloric studies) methodology, documenting disappearing rural traditions. His 1933 work Kodai Kenkyū (Ancient Studies) revealed how Shinto rituals influenced classical literature, including reinterpretations of The Tale of Genji.

Orikuchi's dual identity as poet (Nobel nominee) and scholar produced unique insights. He preserved Okinawan oral traditions through wartime, later influencing Hayao Miyazaki's Princess Mononoke forest spirituality concepts. His Shinto no Hashira research continues guiding shrine renovations today.