Amaterasu is the sun goddess, the queen of the kami, and the center of Shinto and Japanese spiritual life. As an embodiment of the sun, she is also an embodiment of Japan itself. She holds an important role in the country’s history, as the imperial family traces their lineage back to her. 
For Further Reading:

Amaterasu


Shinto: The Kami Way
Amaterasu: Return of the Sun
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