A complete guide to Japanese shrine worship etiquette! Basic rules that tourists should know

Japanese shrines are sacred places rich in history and culture.

When visiting as a tourist, it is important to follow the rules and manners of the place.

In this article, I will introduce basic manners at Japanese shrines.

What to wear when visiting a shrine

When visiting a shrine, try to dress as clean as possible. It's safe to avoid clothes that are too casual or revealing. Formal attire is sometimes desirable, especially when important ceremonies are taking place or at large shrines.

Manners when passing through torii gates

There is a gate called a “torii gate” at the entrance of the shrine.

Before going through the torii gate, bow once, and the center of the torii gate is regarded as God's path, so let's pass by either side or left. Also, it is common to take off a hat when passing through a torii gate.

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How to clean at the water house

When you enter the shrine, there is a place called a “tesuisha” to clean your hands and mouth. Follow the steps below to clean.

Hold the ladle with your right hand and pour water on your left hand to clean it.

Next, hold the ladle with your left hand and clean your right hand.

Hold the ladle with your right hand again, take a small amount of water in your left hand, and rinse your mouth (don't put water directly from the ladle into your mouth).

Finally, clean your left hand again, stand up the handle of the ladle, and clean the handle with any remaining water.

How to worship at the main shrine

There are the following steps for praying at the main shrine.

If there's a bell, I'll ring it.

Put an offering in the offering box. Generally, 5 yen coins (from the meaning of “having a relationship”) are preferred.

We bow deeply and clap twice.

Put your hands together and pray, then bow once again at the end.

*Rules vary depending on the shrine, so be sure to follow the rules of the shrine you're visiting.

Photo shooting etiquette

Taking photos inside the shrine is generally permitted, but photography is often prohibited inside the main shrine or during ceremonies.

Follow the signs and staff instructions before shooting. Also, it is important to be careful not to disturb other worshipers.

Consideration for shrine facilities and goods

The shrine's facilities and items (votive plaques, goshuin books, lanterns, etc.) are sacred. Be careful not to handle it roughly or touch it without permission. Also, avoid eating or drinking on the approach to the shrine or in the precincts, and be sure to take your trash home with you.

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Other manners

Don't speak loudly

A shrine is a place where silence is valued. Let's pray quietly.

Pet companion

Pets may not be allowed to enter some shrines. Let's check beforehand.

No smoking

Smoking is generally prohibited on the shrine grounds. Please smoke in designated areas.

summary

By observing manners at Japanese shrines, you can respect sacred places and visit your own peace of mind.

It's important to understand and respect these basic manners when visiting as a tourist.

Please spend a wonderful time while feeling the culture and history of the shrine.

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