How to Respectfully Visit Japanese Temples and Shrines
To behave properly, observe silence, follow the specific purification rituals at the entrance, and never take photos where signs explicitly forbid it. Remember that these are active places of worship, not mere tourist attractions, so keep your voice low and your movements respectful.
- Respect the entrance. At a shrine, bow once before crossing under the torii gate. At a temple, bow before crossing the sanmon gate. Do not walk directly down the center of the path, as that is reserved for the deity; walk slightly to the side.
- Perform the purification ritual. At the chozuya (water pavilion), take the ladle with your right hand, rinse your left hand. Switch hands to rinse your right. Pour water into your left palm to rinse your mouth (do not touch the ladle to your mouth), then hold the ladle vertically to let the remaining water clean the handle for the next person.
- Follow prayer etiquette. At a shrine: toss a coin into the box, bow twice, clap twice, pray, then bow once more. At a temple: toss a coin, bow once, fold your hands in prayer silently (do not clap), then bow once more.
- Observe photography rules. Look for 'No Photo' signs near the main altar. Even where photography is allowed, never use a flash or a tripod, and avoid pointing your camera directly at people who are praying.
- Can I talk while inside the temple?
- Keep conversation to a minimum and use a whisper. Avoid talking entirely while standing in front of the main altar or inner sanctum.
- Do I have to pray if I am not religious?
- No. You can simply bow respectfully and observe the architecture. You are welcome as a guest, provided you remain quiet and unobtrusive.
- What should I do with my trash?
- Carry it out. Public trash cans are rare in Japan, and leaving litter at a sacred site is considered highly disrespectful.