Herbert's book
You have my envy, Nathan! Herbert's book is probably one of the most comprehensive treatments of the subject available in English. I first found it in a college library back in 1995. I had two more opportunities to study it while doing uchi deshi trainings with Hendricks Sensei at Aikido of San Leandro. Since then, I have hunted on and off for a reasonably-priced copy (that is, under $100).
Of course, the major dilemma with it is that its author is not Japanese--therefore, the emphasis, or lack thereof, pertaining to some of the subject areas may be skewed. On the other hand, the very fact that Herbert was a Westerner may make this a more understandable resource for us fellow Westerners. Another excellent book in a similar vein is John K. Nelson's "A Year in the Life of a Shinto Shrine" (1996, ISBN 0-295-97500-8, paperback)
A third source I enjoy using for Japanese cultural perspective is "We Japanese," by the Fujiya Hotel, LTD., Miyonoshita, Hakone. It is a fascinating book that was originally published between 1934 and 1950 in three volumes, intended for the use of hotel guests. The edition I have is dated 1950, string-bound on thin parchment paper. It is stuffed full of customs, folk beliefs, mythology, ceremonies and other aspects that the Japanese writers felt were interesting and important for Westerners to know. Of course, that very emphasis ALSO skews the results...
Obviously, studying the foundation books of Shinto--that is, the Nihonji and the Kojiki--in their original language would be most appropriate for anyone undertaking a serious project in researching the history of Shinto. I have two different English translations of the Kojiki--Basil Chamberlain's and Donald Philippi's--which I prefer--and it is enlightening to see how different these two authors have interpreted the same material.
Sigh. Unless we can magically duplicate the background of a Japanese upbringing, replete with fluency and literacy in the language, we will always be at a disadvantage in trying to gain a full understanding of the culture. It would be an interesting exercise to look at some books written by Japanese authors, for a Japanese public, on such topics as life and religion in the United States. We would probably laugh and shake our heads at some of the inaccuracies or viewpoints. However, that is what I find so wonderful about studying other cultures, and why the subject is endlessly fascinating.
In Sangha,
Dr. Diane Mirro