Shrines (Shinto) and temples (Buddhist) are places of worship, and many are also famous sights. You do not need to know the rituals to visit. Follow the signs, copy what locals do, and keep your voice low. A few simple steps show respect and help you avoid the most common mistakes.
Know the difference
- A shrine has a torii gate at the entrance, and a main hall where people pray. Shrines are often marked with a gate made of two posts and two beams.
- A temple has a main hall, often with a large statue inside. Temples may also have a gate, a pagoda, and gardens.
Both kinds of place have rules. Read the signs at the entrance before you go in.
Before you enter
- Bow once at the torii gate when you enter a shrine. This is a sign of respect.
- Walk at the side of the path, not in the middle. The centre is for the gods.
- Remove your hat if you wear one, and keep your voice low.
Purify your hands and mouth
Many shrines have a water basin (chozuya) near the entrance. You purify your hands like this:
- Take the ladle with your right hand. Fill it with water.
- Pour water over your left hand.
- Switch hands. Pour water over your right hand.
- Hold the ladle in your left hand, and pour a little water into your left palm. Rinse your mouth with it. Do not put the ladle to your mouth.
- Tilt the ladle to let the water run down the handle, then put it back.
If the basin is empty or closed, skip this step.
Pray at the main hall
Stand in front of the main hall. Put a coin in the box. At a shrine, the usual way to pray is to bow twice, clap twice, and bow once more. At a temple, you usually put your hands together and bow in silence. Follow the local custom that you see around you.
Photos and shoes
- Photos are often allowed outside, but not inside the main hall. Look for a sign.
- Some halls ask you to remove your shoes. Look for a step or a sign, and follow it. Keep your socks clean.
- Do not touch statues, bells or ropes unless a sign allows it.
- Do not sit on steps in front of a hall for a long time, especially at busy times.
Check first: Read the signs at the gate and check the official website of the temple or shrine for photo, shoe and entry rules. Rules differ between places.
Queues and crowds
Some temples have queues for the main hall or a special garden. Wait your turn, and keep the line moving. At busy times, go early in the morning, when the crowds are smaller.
Common mistakes
- You photograph people who are praying.
- You walk through the middle of the path.
- You eat in a sacred area when the sign says not to.
- You drink from the purification basin.
Stamps, charms and offerings
Many shrines and temples sell charms (omamori) and paper fortunes (omikuji). Buy them at the counter, and handle them with care. Do not tie a charm to a tree or a fence unless a sign asks you to. Some temples also sell a stamp book (goshuin-cho). You can ask a staff member for a stamp and a written mark. Pay at the counter, and wait while they write.
Behave with respect in busy places
Keep your voice low, and keep your phone on silent. Do not run on the grounds or climb on walls and statues. If a monk or a priest is praying or leading a ceremony, stand back and watch from a distance. Respect the people who visit to pray, not only the people who visit to see the buildings.
What to do next
Visit one shrine and one temple in the first days of your trip. Use the guides to find places near your route.
