This time, I will explain the etiquette for visiting a Shinto shrine in Japan.
As I mentioned in the previous post, shrines and temples are different, so please keep that in mind. This guide will focus on the proper way to pay your respects at a shrine.
In fact, there are no strict rules for shrine visits. The way you show respect varies from person to person, and the way you worship varies from shrine to shrine and region to region. While Japan has many deities, the most important thing is to show respect to the god enshrined at the shrine.
However, without guidance, it can be difficult to know how to express your feelings appropriately. So I've put together a simple guide to the common practices and etiquette for visiting a shrine in Japan.
Just as we take care to dress appropriately for formal occasions such as weddings or funerals, it's wise to dress appropriately when visiting a shrine. While it's easy to dress casually when you're traveling, if you're planning to visit a special place, particularly inside the shrine's main hall, it's best to wear suitable clothing.
When you arrive at the shrine, the first step is to pass through the torii gate. It is considered polite to bow slightly before passing through, much like showing respect when visiting someone's home. This is because the torii gate is believed to mark the boundary between the everyday world and the sacred space of the shrine. When leaving the shrine grounds, it's also polite to face the shrine and bow again.
When walking towards the main hall, it is a sign of respect in Japan to avoid walking in the middle of the path. The middle of the road is considered the path of the deity. when crossing the center, you can show respect by lowering your head slightly or turning to face the shrine and bowing before crossing. Remember, the shrine grounds are considered sacred.
As you continue along the path, you'll probably come across a structure like the one in the photo before you reach the main hall. This is called a "temizusha", a place where visitors purify their mind and body with water. It's a good idea to have a handkerchief ready in advance.
To begin, take the ladle with your right hand and wash your left hand first. Then switch the ladle to your left hand and wash your right hand. Next, switch the ladle back to your right hand, pour some water into your left hand, and rinse your mouth with it. Be careful not to touch the ladle to your lips, as others will be using the same ladle after you.
After rinsing your mouth, rinse your left hand again, and then hold the ladle vertically with both hands, allowing the water to rinse the handle. Finally, return the ladle to its original position. Dry your hands and mouth with the handkerchief, and finish with a shallow bow.
This series of actions to purify the mind and body is called chozu. Although some Japanese people skip this step, it's good to be aware of it.
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At last, you've arrived in front of the main hall.
The most important thing is your sincerity. As you stand before the offertory box, bow slightly and place an offering in the box as a sign of your sincerity. The amount is not important, and it's perfectly fine if you don't have any to offer.
The basic ritual consists of "two bows, two claps, one bow".
[Two Bows] First, take a moment to compose yourself, then bow deeply twice.
[Two Claps] Next, bring your hands together at chest height, pull your right hand slightly back, and clap your hands twice at shoulder-width apart.
Then, bring your hands together fully and offer a sincere prayer.
[One Bow] Lower your hands and finish with one more deep bow.
With that, your visit to the shrine is complete.
Shinto has no specific doctrines or scriptures. Some even say that it is not a religion. It is so ancient that no doctrines remain, only the form of prayer.
However, it is also true that this form of prayer has helped Japanese people find inner peace for generations.
Regardless of your religious beliefs, visiting a shrine and experiencing this ritual while you're in Japan might be a meaningful experience.
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