The correct way to visit a shrine in Japan

The correct way to visit a shrine in Japan

When visiting a shrine, what is the correct way to pray? I’m sure there are many people who have wondered this. Since you are making a request to the gods, you want to know the proper etiquette. Here are some basic etiquette and trivia you should know before praying!

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I want to know the basic etiquette for visiting a shrine!

basic etiquette for visiting a shrine

In fact, there are no strict rules for the etiquette when visiting a shrine.
The way to show respect varies from person to person. The most important thing is to pray with sincerity. Also, there are characteristics that vary depending on the shrine and region.

However, if you want to pray as carefully as possible, it is natural that you would want to know the correct etiquette.

Here we have summarized the general etiquette and manners for visiting a shrine.

Bow before passing through the torii gate

Bow before passing through the torii gate

Torii gates are said to separate the inside and outside of a shrine, indicating that the inside is the domain of the gods.

It is proper etiquette to bow before passing through
, as if you were visiting the home of a superior. When you have finished praying and are leaving, it is also good to turn around and bow.

Avoid walking in the center of the approach to the shrine

Avoid walking in the center of the approach to the shrine

The center of the approach to the shrine is called “Seichū” and is said to be the path the gods walk through.
It is best to avoid this area and walk slightly to the left or right.

Also, a slight bow when crossing, or turning to face the altar in the center and bowing, are ways of showing respect.

Cleanse your hands and mouth at the Chozuya (purification fountain)

purification fountain

When you approach a place where you will be praying, such as a worship hall, you will likely come across a temizuya (chozuya) or chozuya (purification fountain).

This is a place where you can purify yourself with water and purify your body and mind. Let’s try using the temizu (chozu) well.

1: Prepare a handkerchief or something in an easily accessible place, then take a ladle with your right hand, scoop up some water, and wash your left hand.
Be careful not to let the water you used for washing go back into the basin (where the clean water is stored). As a guideline, use about 1/3 of the water for each action.

2. Switch to left hand and wash right hand

3: Switch to your right hand, pour some water into your left palm, and rinse your mouth
. Do not put your mouth directly to the ladle. When pouring out the water, it is smart to bend down and cover your mouth with your left hand. Depending on the condition of the water, you may be reluctant to put water in your mouth. In such cases, there is no need to force yourself. God will surely understand the situation.

4. Hold the ladle upright and allow the remaining water to flow down the handle to wash it.

5: Place it back face down in its original place

Place it back face down in its original place

It is a beautiful gesture to do all of the above with just one glass of water. Do not splash around and waste water, but do it calmly. By the way, this hand-washing technique is also used in the tea ceremony.

What is the order for offering money?

offering money

If there is a bell on the offering box, it is sometimes rung. The sound is said to purify the worshipper.

First, ring the bell to prepare yourself for prayer. After that, put in your offering.

It is said that throwing it in has the effect of purifying oneself, but there is no need to throw it with any force.

Put it in carefully and with love.

The prayer procedure is “two bows, two claps, one bow”

prayer procedure is "two bows, two claps, one bow"

Two bows, two claps, one bow (nirei nihakushu ichirei) is the basic way of praying at a shrine today. It is also called two bows, two claps, one bow.

1. Straighten your posture and bow deeply twice.

2: Bring your right hand back (shift) slightly and place it at chest height. Open both hands shoulder-width apart and hit twice.

3: Put your hands together and pray sincerely

4. Bow deeply

Depending on the shrine, the number of times to clap may vary. If there is a sign instructing you on how to do it, it is best to follow that.

Other frequently asked questions about etiquette Q&A

From here on, we will provide you with some useful information and etiquette you should know before visiting the shrine in a Q&A format.

Q. Should I always get a goshuin?

A goshuin is like a proof that you have visited the shrine

A goshuin is like a proof that you have visited the shrine, so be sure to get one after you have visited the shrine.

Of course, since it is not a commemorative stamp, you cannot ask for it in a notebook or anything. Make sure to have a goshuin book ready. If it is your first time, you can purchase one at the shrine office.

There are limited reception times, and even if you arrive within the time limit, you may not be able to receive a goshuin due to the absence of the writer. There are also many shrines that do not grant goshuin in the first place, so it is recommended that you check the website of the shrine you want to visit in advance.

Q. What should I do with the fortune I draw?

fortune draw

People often tie their fortune slips to tree branches in the temple grounds before taking them home. This is said to be an act of wishing for their wishes to come true. Tying them to branches is a way of drawing on the life force of the tree.

However, tying too many ropes can weaken the wood, so if there is a special tying stand available, be sure to tie them there.

Omikuji is not just a fortune telling, but it is meant to help you sense the divine will from what is written on it and use it as a guide for your life. It is also said to be good to take it home and reread it from time to time.

Q. When is the best time to buy a charm?

amulete, charm

Like the goshuin, this should be done after you have finished praying at the shrine.

Q. Can I have multiple amulets?

Some people say, “If you have too many, won’t the gods start fighting with each other?” But there’s no need to worry.

There are many gods in Japan, as they are said to be eight million gods. Each one protects you with their own divine virtue, so it doesn’t matter how many you have as long as you cherish them.

Q. How do I return the amulet?

At the end of the year, you should return the amulet that you have prayed for protection through throughout the year to the shrine and have it burned.

Of course, you can keep wearing it until your wish comes true. In that case, if you feel that your wish has been granted, go and pray at the shrine with gratitude.

Q. Are there any rules regarding attire when worshiping at a shrine?

The way we dress reflects how we feel at the time. There are no strict rules, but just as we should dress neatly when meeting someone of higher rank, we should dress properly when meeting God.

Especially when visiting a shrine for a baby’s first shrine visit or Shichigosan ceremony, and visiting a special place such as inside the shrine, it is best to wear formal attire such as a suit or kimono.

Summary

What do you think about the correct way to pray at a shrine? The important thing is not the formality, but the heart. If you pray with all your heart, you will surely feel refreshed.

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