Temples and shrines have made a big contribution to the traditional culture of Japan. With thousands of them all over Japan, it’s indeed a must visit. The good thing about these temples and shrines is that you don’t have to be a Buddhist or a follower of Shintoism to enter and enjoy these places.
If you’re visiting a temple or shrine for the first time, you would want to take a look at this guide for proper temple and shrine worship etiquette:
Visiting a Shrine
1. Bow when you pass the Torii Gate. Shrines have Torii Gates which is the first thing you’ll see upon entering. Bow slightly in front of the gate.
2. Avoid walking at the center of the path. - The center position is believed to be the path where the gods walk in. You should walk sideways.
3. Rinse your hands and mouth to purify yourself. - You’ll see a water fountain or basin with a bamboo ladle in it. Pick up the ladle, pour water in it and wash your left hand and do the same to your right hand. Then pick up the ladle and pour water in your left hand and rinse your mouth. Spit the water into the ground afterwards.
4. Gently toss a coin in front of the offering box.
5. Ring the bell for two to three times. - It is a signal to the gods that you are there.
6. Bow twice, clap twice and bow your head again. Then start to pray for your concerns and make a wish.
7. Pull an Omikuji after praying. - Shrines have a spot where you can have your fortune told through Omikuji. Fortunes are written on a paper strip where the results may vary from 大吉 – Dai-kichi or great blessing to 大凶 – Daik-you great curse!
Visiting a Temple
Paying respects at Temple has a similarity to Shrine but not all.
1. Bow slightly upon entering the temple. - Just like in Shrines, Temples has a gate called mon. Bow slightly before entering. Do not walk at the center of the path.
2. Rinse your hands and mouth to purify yourself. - You can also see a water fountain or basin with a bamboo ladle inside the Temple grounds. Pick up the ladle, pour water in it and wash your left hand and do the same to your right hand. Then pick up the ladle and pour water in your left hand and rinse your mouth. Spit the water into the ground afterwards.
3. Burn an incense. - Buy a bundle of incense and burn them in the large incense burner for a few seconds then fan out the smoke by waving your hand. Afterwards, leave the incense to the burner and then bow slightly.
4. Gently toss a coin in front of the offering box.
5. Ring the bell for two to three times. It’s a signal to the gods that you are there.
6. Bow slightly and pay your respects to the Buddha. Clapping is not required. After praying, bow slightly again.
7. When entering the temple buildings, you must remove your shoes and place it in the shelves inside the entrance of the building.
Here are some additional tips to remember when visiting either temple or shrine:
1. Do not talk so loud. You are entering a holy and sacred place, minimize the volume of your voice.
2. Observe silence.
3. Respect the other people who are praying.
4. Check where it is allowed to take photographs. Carefully watch out for the signs.
Experience to pay respects to the gods when you visit a temple on shrine on your trip to Japan.
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