Kokka Shinto is a term used to describe the state-sponsored form of Shinto that was pervasive in Japan until the end of World War II. Although it is now defunct, there are several synonyms for Kokka Shinto that still convey the same meaning. Some of these include National Shinto, State Shinto, Imperial Shinto, and Government Shinto. While Kokka Shinto was a way for the Japanese government to exert their control over religious practices, the term National Shinto is often used to refer to Shinto practices that are indigenous to Japan and have been practiced for centuries. Regardless of the term used, Shintoism remains an important part of Japanese culture and history.