Basic Etiquette for Visiting Temples and Shrines
"TERA"
"JINJYA"
One of the best ways to experience the rich culture of Japan is to visit some of its countless temples (tera) and shrines (jinjya). Whether Buddhist or Shinto, these holy sites each have their own unique story and architectural details and are fascinating places to spend some time.
Like any place of worship, it's important to know the basics of etiquette so both you and the visitors around you have the best experience possible. Here are a few tips I've found most useful based on my visits to Japanese temples and shrines:
1. Be prepared to remove your shoes.
While the amount of access you'll have to the inner rooms will vary from site to site, you may be asked to remove your shoes. Make sure to wear a comfortable pair that can be slipped off easily. I usually carry some socks in my bag for additional comfort.
2. Pay attention to notes about cameras.
Pictures are typically permitted of the structure as a whole, but once you approach the sanctuary, photos are not usually allowed, out of respect for the souls enshrined there. Be sure to look for signs and be ready to put your camera away.
3. Keep noise to a minimum.
As many people come to these sites to pray, avoid loud chatter and keep your phone off or on silent while visiting, especially when approaching the sanctuary.
4. Bring change.
Consider bringing some coins with you to make a donation for the upkeep of the temple or shrine.
5. Clean your hands.
Before entering a large temple, there often will be a place to cleanse your hands and mouth. The fresh water provided prepares you to offer up a prayer or your wishes that the clergy may offer up.
6. Do your research.
Study up on the history of the temple or shrine you're planning to visit ahead of time. Knowing what this site represents allows you to better appreciate it and behave accordingly.
7. Be mindful of other visitors.
These sites can be very crowded. While it's certainly appropriate to take your turn, remember there are many other people who would like to get up close to see what's going on or offer a prayer.
8. Be respectful of the grounds.
As many of these structures are very old or have been rebuilt due to fires, it's important not to do any harm. Don't leave any trash behind and, of course, no smoking.
Whether you're amid all the hustle and bustle of Kyoto or enjoying a more rural part of the country, the fact you're never far from one of these beautiful places is one of the aspects I enjoy most about living in Japan. No matter your personal beliefs, visiting a temple or shrine allows you a moment to reflect and be inspired. When in doubt, observe the behaviors of those around you or ask a member of the staff for help.
How to Pray at Temples and Shrines
Whether a tourist or native, visits to temples and shrines are par for the course while in Japan.
While there are – usually – no strict rules aside from using common sense and exercising common courtesy (be considerate to others, mindful of property, no smoking, respect no photographing signs, etc.), there actually is a right way to perform the prayers and self-purification rites that you've either attempted yourself or haven taken pictures of other people doing.
Believe it or not, there are of a lot of native Japanese that mostly just go through the motions without knowing the proper procedure. (I only mention this to quell your embarrassment if you have ever tried and felt silly afterwards for it.)
With that in mind, here’s a basic primer to help you look like you know what you’re doing (and not upset any Shinto or Buddhist gods in the process *wink*).
AT THE WATER PURIFICATION WELL
Purify your body and mind before entering the main shrine.
- 1. Take the ladle in your right hand and scoop a cup of water
- 2. Splash some water onto your left hand (to cleanse it)
- 3. Transfer the ladle to your left hand and then splash some water onto your right hand
- 4. Transfer the ladle back to your right hand and pour some water into your (cupped) left hand. Sip the water from your left hand and rinse your mouth (by drinking the water – do NOT drink directly from the ladle. Many people avoid this bit out of safety concerns).
- 5. With the remaining water, tilt the ladle back so that the water runs over the ladle, thereby cleansing it. Return the ladle to the well.
AT THE OFFERING/PRAYER HALL
Case the Temples
- 1. Toss a coin into the offering box. (if there is a gong, you may ring it before you pray to attract the temple/shrine’s god’s attention -)
- 2. Bow (deeply)
- 3. Pray or make your wish
- 4. Bow (deeply) once more and then leave
Case the Shrines
- 1. Toss a coin into the offering box. (if there is a gong, you may ring it before you pray to attract the temple/shrine’s god’s attention -)
- 2. Bow (deeply) twice
- 3. Clap your hands twice
- 4. Pray or make your wish
- 5. Bow (deeply) once more and then leave
That’s it! Now your temple and shrine visits can take on a deeper (Japan), more meaningful experience.