How to Visit a Japanese Shrine or Temple? What is the Correct Worship Procedure?

Okay, no problem! Visiting shrines and temples is an essential experience when traveling in Japan. It might seem overwhelming with all the rules at first, but once you grasp the basic procedure, you'll find it's very simple and a great way to truly feel the local culture. Below, I've organized a super easy-to-understand guide for you - just follow these steps!

How to Visit a Japanese Shrine or Temple? What is the Correct Procedure?

Hi there! Saw you wanted to know about shrine and temple visit etiquette – it's truly one of the best ways to experience Japanese culture. Don't worry, it's not as complicated as it seems; the whole process is full of ritual and pretty interesting. I've outlined the steps and some details here, hope it helps!

First, Identify if it's a "Shrine" or a "Temple"

This is important because the visiting etiquette differs slightly. Here's a simple way to tell them apart:

Shrine (Jinja): Has a "torii" gate at the entrance (that gateway that looks like the kanji "开"). It enshrines deities of Japan's native Shinto religion. Examples: Meiji Jingu in Tokyo, Fushimi Inari Taisha in Kyoto.
Temple (Otera): Typically has a grand "sanmon" gate at the entrance. Inside, you'll often find Buddhist statues, incense burners, and pagodas. It's a place of worship for Buddhism, which came to Japan from China. Examples: Sensō-ji in Tokyo, Kiyomizu-dera in Kyoto.

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General Procedure (Applies to Most Shrines and Temples)

Let's go through it step by step, starting from entering the gate:

Step 1: Passing Through the Entrance Gate (Torii/Sanmon)

This symbolizes entering the realm of the deity or Buddha. Remember a small etiquette point:

Before passing through, pause slightly and bow gently. This shows respect to the deity/Buddha.
Do NOT walk down the very center path! The central path is called "seichū" and is reserved for the deities. As visitors, we should walk along the sides.

Tip: When leaving, remember to turn around towards the shrine/temple and bow once more as a sign of gratitude.

Step 2: Purify Yourself at the "Chōzuya" (Super Important!)

After entering the gate, you'll see a water basin with ladles called "Chōzuya". Washing your hands and rinsing your mouth here before worship symbolizes cleansing your body and mind. It's a crucial step.

Don't panic, remember this rhyme: "Left first, right second, then rinse mouth, finally clean ladle handle"

Here's how it's done:

Pick up the ladle with your right hand and scoop some water.
Rinse your left hand first.
Then, switch the ladle to your left hand and rinse your right hand.
Switch back to your right hand holding the ladle, pour a little water into your cupped left palm.
Use the water in your left palm to rinse your mouth. (Note! Do not put your mouth directly on the ladle, and do not swallow the water. Spit it out discreetly onto the ground beside the basin, not into it).
Finally, tilt the ladle vertically so the remaining water runs down the handle, cleaning it for the next person.
Return the ladle to its place.

The whole process should ideally be done with just "one ladle of water"! So it's okay to scoop a slightly fuller ladle at the start.

Step 3: Approach the Main Hall & Make an Offering

Walk along the approach path (sando) to the main hall (called "haiden"). You'll see a large slatted wooden box – this is the "Saisen-bako" (offering box).

First, bow gently towards the main hall.
Then, gently drop your offering (called "saiken") into the box. Any amount is fine – it's the thought that counts. Many people like to use a 5-yen coin because "go-en" (5 yen) sounds like "go-en" (ご縁, meaning "good connection" or "fate"), signifying a hopeful connection with the deity. But no 5-yen coin? No problem at all! Sincerity is what matters.

Step 4: Formal Worship (Methods Differ for Shrines & Temples!)

After making your offering comes the main worship ritual. Here, it's essential to know whether you're at a shrine or a temple.

【Shrine Worship Method: "Nirei-nihakushu-ichirei" (Two Bows, Two Claps, One Bow)】

This is the unique Shinto ritual. Remember “Two bows, two claps, one bow”.

Ring the bell (if present in front of the hall): Gently shake the thick rope hanging down to ring the bell. It's said this calls the deity's attention.
Bow twice: Bow deeply twice (about 90 degrees).
Clap twice: With hands held together in front of your chest, slightly slide your right hand down and clap twice distinctly. "Clap, clap". Make a crisp sound.
Clasp hands and pray: After clapping, bring your hands back together (palms flat, fingers extended), and silently make your wish and offer thanks to the deity.
Bow once more: Finish by placing your hands at your sides and making one final deep bow.

【Temple Worship Method: "Gasshō Mokuhai" (Praying with Hands Folded)】

Since temples are Buddhist, the worship style is quieter and gentler.

Light incense (if an incense burner is nearby): You can buy incense sticks from nearby vendors. Light one and place it in the incense burner. It's believed that drawing the smoke towards your body with your hand brings health benefits – waft it towards any areas where you feel discomfort.
Pray with hands folded: Stand before the main hall, place your hands together in the Buddhist prayer position (gasshō - palms flat, fingers aligned vertically), close your eyes, bow your head slightly, and silently pray to the Buddha.
Do NOT clap! Maintain quiet reverence; clapping is not done in temples.
Conclude with a gentle bow.

Fun Optional Activities After Worship

Don't rush off after praying! There are plenty of fun things to try:

Omikuji (Fortune Slips): For about 100 or 200 yen, shake a cylinder to draw a slip that tells your fortune. A "Daikichi" (great luck) is always nice! If you get a "Kyou" (bad luck), don't worry. Tie it to the designated rack to leave the misfortune behind so it doesn't follow you home.
Write an Ema (Wish Plaque): Buy a small wooden plaque (ema), write your wish on it (like for studies, health, love, etc.), and hang it on the special rack – so the deities can see it!
Collect a Goshuin (Temple Seal): If you have a "Goshuinchō" (a special stamp book), you can ask the shrine or temple staff to write a calligraphic seal/stamp for you. Each goshuin is a unique work of calligraphic art and a wonderful travel souvenir!

A Few Final Tips

Attire: There's no strict dress code, but dress neatly and respectfully. Avoid overly revealing clothing.
Photography: Photos are usually allowed in most areas, but the inner sanctuaries often prohibit photography of the main deity/statue – watch for signs. When taking photos, also try not to disturb people who are praying.
What if I make a mistake in the procedure? It's really okay! The deities and Buddha are understanding. The most important things are respect and a sincere heart. Relax and enjoy the experience!

Hope this guide makes your shrine and temple visits in Japan smoother and more enjoyable! Have a great trip!