Question about the Shinto religion?

I've read that Shinto in Japan is viewed as sort of a "native" religion, and that it's something only for Japanese people/people with Japanese blood...well, not exactly. What I've read on Shinto basically said how it's an indigenous religion and it doesn't look for converts, one can't "convert" to Shinto or decide to practice it, and it's only for Japanese people.

So like, even if someone from another country moved to Japan, settled permanently, got citizenship, learned the language, and (attempted to) just plant their roots there and try to fit in with society and even started a family there....they couldn't practice Shinto unless they were of Japanese blood/descent? Couldn't pray at shrines, couldn't be a Mikol, etc?

If you are so drawn to the Shinto religion, then perhaps it is your destiny to find a way into it.

Having spent two years in Japan, Shinto is part of the Japanese mind-set, which is rapidly becoming Westernized (it was while I was there 45 years ago).

Shinto is dwindling because the mind-set needed to appreciate it is disappearing. It will likely become a "lost" religion within the next 100 years or so.

As to obtaining the kind of mind-set needed to appreciate the religion, one would almost need to be raised in the culture. It isn't because one cannot worship, pray, etc., but because us foreigners do not have the understanding necessary for it.

You do see hints in some Japanese Aime and film productions, though, but it isn't enough to fully comprehend it.

I don't think it's ONLY for Japanese people, even though it was sanctioned to be the national religion some generations back. The way I understand it it's not even technically a religion since it isn't exclusive (IE Christian/Buddhist Shintoists practice), it's more ritual than about beliefs. I don't think anyone would be offended if non-Japanese citizens paid respect at a shrine. Not sure about becoming a Mikol, tho. o.O

I don?t understand, though. Shinto is a form of complex animism. It should simply apply to the whole world. Why dozen?t it?