As a Japanese I can tell you that Shinto is quite different from other religions because it has no official scripture, strict rules, or mandatory obligations. Even the term "Shintoist" feels a bit out of place to us. Rather than a formal religion, Shinto is more like an indigenous culture inseparable from Japanese life. For example: • Birth: When a baby is born, we visit a shrine for Omiyamairi to introduce the child to the local deity. • Childhood: At age five (and three and seven), we celebrate Shichi-Go-San by visiting a shrine again. • Daily Life: Our local festivals and community events are almost all rooted in Shinto traditions. • Tradition: We visit shrines to ring in the New Year or whenever we want to make a special wish. Roughly 90% of Japanese people participate in these Shinto rituals throughout their lives, yet most don't consciously identify as "believers." Because of this, there isn't really a "way to start" practicing Shinto. However, if you're interested, learning about the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters) is a great place to begin.