How to pray at a Japanese shrine starts with understanding what a shrine truly is—a sacred space dedicated to the deities of Shinto, Japan’s traditional religion. These places are rich in spiritual meaning, filled with respect for nature, and often hold deep historical significance.
This guide is here to help you experience shrine visits in a respectful and meaningful way by explaining the proper prayer steps and basic etiquette.
Table of Contents
Chikako Higuchi
Expert in Etiquette and Communication;
Former Shiseido Beauty Consultant. At Shiseido, gained deep expertise in hospitality, aesthetics, and understanding customers’ needs. Moved to KidZania Tokyo, a job-experience theme park for children, to share these skills. Earned the Outstanding Supervisor Award for delivering courteous service and led staff etiquette training.
Later, trained over 20,000 people in etiquette across the country. Involved in publishing, writing columns, supervising magazine articles, and appearing in the media.
Chapter 1: The Role of Shrines in Japan
How to pray at a Japanese shrine starts with understanding what shrines are and the beliefs behind them. Shinto, Japan’s native spiritual tradition, is based on a deep respect for nature and ancestors. It’s often viewed more as a way of thinking or living than a formal religion. At its core is the idea that gods, or kami, exist in all things—mountains, rivers, trees, rocks, and even everyday moments.
There are countless kami, which is why you’ll often hear the phrase “eight million gods”—written in Japanese as 八百万の神 (yaoyorozu no kami). This expression reflects the belief that kami are everywhere and in everything. These deities include gods of nature, like the sea or mountains, gods connected to daily life—such as those of harvests, kitchens, and homes—as well as honored ancestors and historical figures who made lasting contributions to the country.
Because of this, shrines can be found all over Japan, each one dedicated to local deities with strong ties to the area. Knowing who the shrine honors—and the story behind them—can make your visit feel even more meaningful and personal.
Chapter 2: The Difference Between Shrines and Temples
As you learn how to pray at a Japanese shrine, it’s helpful to know how shrines differ from temples. Shrines are part of Shinto, Japan’s native belief system, and honor kami—gods or spirits found in nature and everyday life. Temples, on the other hand, are Buddhist and center around Buddha (hotoke), with monks living and practicing there.
Temples often hold funerals, memorial services, and may have cemeteries. But like shrines, anyone can visit to pray or reflect.
Not sure which one you’re at? Look for a torii gate (鳥居 / torii)—you’ll find it at shrines, but not temples.
Both are sacred places, so please be quiet, respectful, and take your time to appreciate the space.
| English | Japanese | Romaji |
|---|---|---|
|
Shinto shrine |
神社 |
jinja |
|
Buddhist temple |
寺 |
tera |
|
God |
神 |
kami |
|
Buddha |
仏 |
hotoke |
Chapter 3: Why Visit a Shinto Shrine in Japan?
When learning how to pray at a Japanese shrine, it helps to understand why people visit shrines in the first place. Shrines aren’t just places of worship—they’re deeply tied to gratitude, wishes, and life events in Japan. Here are the main reasons people visit:
To Express Gratitude
The original purpose of shrine visits is to thank the kami (gods or spirits).
Before making wishes or personal requests, it’s customary to show gratitude for the blessings you already have—like good health, a safe home, food, and daily peace.
To Make a Wish
Different kami are associated with different areas of life. Visiting a shrine dedicated to a specific type of kami can strengthen your prayer.
Examples include:
Success in studies or exams (学業成就・合格祈願 / gakugyō jōju, gōkaku kigan)
Health and recovery from illness (健康祈願・病気平癒 / kenkō kigan, byōki heiyu)
Safe childbirth or finding a good match (安産祈願・良縁祈願 / anzan kigan, ryōen kigan)
Prosperity and good fortune in business (商売繁盛・金運向上 / shōbai hanjō, kin’un kōjō)
Family safety and traffic safety (家内安全・交通安全 / kanai anzen, kōtsū anzen)
To Mark Life Events and Traditions
Shrines play a big role in Japanese seasonal and life milestone rituals:
Hatsumōde (初詣): the first shrine visit of the New Year
Omiyamairi / Shichi-Go-San (お宮参り・七五三): blessings for newborns and children
Coming-of-Age ceremonies and weddings (成人式・結婚式)
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For Sightseeing
Many popular tourist spots in Japan include a shrine nearby.
Shrines are often surrounded by nature and known for their peaceful atmosphere, making them popular “power spots.”
Some shrines also have historic buildings, treasure halls, and deep ties to local history—making them perfect for cultural sightseeing.
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Chapter 4: How to Visit a Japanese Shrine: Etiquette & Mindset
1. What to Wear When Visiting a Shrine
You don’t need to dress formally, but it’s important to show respect.
Wear clean, modest clothing. Avoid things like:
Ripped jeans
Flip-flops
Revealing outfits
Shrines are sacred spaces, so try to look neat and respectful.
2. Be Quiet and Respectful
Shrines are peaceful places for worship and reflection.
Keep your voice down
Don’t run or make loud noises
Don’t touch anything unless it’s clearly allowed
Even trees or rocks may be sacred. Don’t lean on or sit near them.
3. Open to Everyone
You don’t have to follow Shinto to visit a shrine. Anyone can go, as long as you’re respectful. Many people visit shrines to learn about Japanese culture or enjoy seasonal events.
4. About Taking Photos
Photos are usually allowed, but some areas may be off-limits.
Check for signs before taking pictures
Don’t make playful poses like peace signs
Remember it’s a sacred place—stay respectful
5. How to Pass Through a Torii Gate
The torii (鳥居 / torii) is the gate at the entrance to a shrine. It marks the line between the everyday world and the sacred space.
When you walk through it:
Stop and bow once before entering
Walk along the side—not the center. The center is said to be the path of the gods
Take off your hat or sunglasses as a sign of respect
Chapter 5: How to Pray at Japanese Shrine, Temizuya
When learning how to pray at a Japanese shrine, one of the first steps is purification. Before approaching the main hall, it’s important to cleanse your hands and mouth at a temizuya—a water basin found near the entrance.
What Is Temizu?
Temizu refers to the ritual of purifying your body and spirit before worship. It symbolizes washing away impurities and showing respect to the gods.
Step-by-Step: How to Use the Temizuya
Hold the ladle (柄杓 / hishaku) in your right hand and scoop some water.
Pour water over your left hand to cleanse it.
Switch the ladle to your left hand and rinse your right hand.
Switch back to your right hand, pour water into your left palm, and gently rinse your mouth.
※ Do not drink directly from the ladle.Spit the water quietly onto the ground beside the basin, not back into it.
Rinse your left hand again.
Let the remaining water run down the handle by tipping the ladle upright, then place it back where you found it.
Taking time for this small ritual is an essential part of how to pray at a Japanese shrine with sincerity and respect.
Chapter 6: How to Pray at a Japanese Shrine: Haiden
Here’s a simple guide on how to pray at a Japanese shrine. Some shrines may have their own customs, so follow local signs or staff instructions if needed.
1. Put in Your Offering
Stand in front of the offering box (saisen-bako) and gently drop in a coin.
Don’t throw it from far away—just place it quietly.
If there’s a bell, give it a light shake. The sound is a way to greet the gods and purify the space.
2. Bow Twice, Clap Twice, Bow Once
Two bows: First, bow deeply twice. Bend at the waist about 90 degrees and lower your head each time.
Two claps : Next, bring your hands together in front of your chest and clap twice.
Make your prayer and one final bow: With your hands still together, silently offer your prayer or words of gratitude. Then bow deeply one last time.
This completes the process of how to pray at a Japanese shrine.
Chapter 7: Other Shrine Etiquette in Japan
When visiting a Japanese shrine, it’s important to be respectful not just during prayer but throughout your entire visit. Here are some basic manners to keep in mind:
Keep Quiet and Calm
Avoid running, shouting, or making loud noises inside the shrine grounds. Walk quietly and calmly. Especially near the main hall (haiden), try to keep conversations to a minimum so you don’t disturb others who are praying.
No Eating, Drinking, or Smoking
Generally, eating, drinking, and smoking aren’t allowed inside shrine grounds. Some shrines may have specific areas where it’s okay, but be sure to follow the rules. Always take your trash with you or use the bins provided.
Use Your Phone Considerately
Refrain from talking on your phone while on shrine grounds, and keep your phone on silent or vibrate mode. If you take photos to share on social media, keep it quick and be mindful of other visitors. Remember, the shrine is a peaceful place.
This concludes the guide on how to pray at a Japanese shrine. Visitors of all backgrounds are sincerely welcome to visit shrines in Japan. However, it is important to understand the etiquette and manners in order to show respect by following traditional customs during your visit. We hope this guide helps you have a meaningful and respectful experience.
