A great many Japanese (57% according to one study) consider themselves unaffiliated with organized religion. And, since the Japanese word for religion, shūkyō 宗教, literally means something like "teachings of sects," there is an implication of specific affiliation implied in the idea of considering oneself religious. read more
Studies show that most Japanese consider much of Shinto and Buddhist practice to be integral parts of Japanese culture - meaning, it's something they do as Japanese, no religious association or faith necessary. read more
In Japan, people have a different concept of what religion is. They refer to organized and revealed religion like Christianity and also believe religion is about doctrines and rules. They are not conscious of religion because of the way Japanese culture and religion is intricately connected. The Japanese people are not the keenest religious people. read more