Can non-Buddhists and non-Shintoists visit temples and shrines?

Yes, absolutely. Most temples and shrines welcome respectful visitors of all faiths. You're not required to participate in prayers, but following basic etiquette shows respect for the sacred space and other visitors.

What should I do if I make a mistake with the etiquette?

Don't worry - locals understand that visitors are learning. A simple bow and apologetic gesture if you realize you've done something wrong is enough. Japanese people are generally very forgiving of honest cultural mistakes.

Are there any temples or shrines I shouldn't visit as a tourist?

Almost all temples and shrines welcome tourists. A very few private temple buildings may be restricted during ceremonies, but this is clearly marked. If you see 'no entry' signs or ropes blocking areas, simply respect the boundaries.

Do I need to dress formally for temples and shrines?

Business formal isn't required, but dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing clothing, offensive graphics on t-shirts, and flip-flops. Clean casual clothing is perfectly appropriate.

How to behave properly at Japanese temples and shrines

Bow before entering, purify your hands and mouth at the water basin, walk to the side of paths (not down the center), keep voices low, and follow specific rituals for prayer. Remove hats and sunglasses, turn off camera flash, and dress modestly. Most temples and shrines welcome respectful visitors.

Purify yourself at the entrance. Find the water basin (temizuya) near the entrance. Use the wooden ladle to rinse your left hand, then your right hand. Pour water into your left hand and rinse your mouth (don't drink or put the ladle to your lips). Let remaining water run down the ladle handle to cleanse it.
Walk respectfully on the paths. Stay to the left or right side of walkways. The center is reserved for kami (spirits) at shrines. Bow before passing through torii gates at shrines or entering temple grounds. Remove hats and sunglasses when passing through gates.
Approach the main hall properly. At shrines: throw a coin (5 or 50 yen is traditional) into the offering box, bow twice deeply, clap twice, make your prayer silently, then bow once more. At temples: place hands together in prayer position, bow, make your offering, and pray silently without clapping.
Take photos respectfully. Turn off flash completely. Don't photograph people praying or ceremonies. Many temples prohibit photos inside buildings - look for signs. Never use selfie sticks near prayer areas. Ask permission before photographing monks or shrine maidens.
Follow additional etiquette rules. Keep conversations quiet. Don't touch sacred objects, buildings, or statues. Don't point at religious items. Put out cigarettes before entering grounds. Many temples charge 300-600 yen entrance fees - pay at the gate. Don't bring food or drinks into prayer areas.

Can non-Buddhists and non-Shintoists visit temples and shrines?: Yes, absolutely. Most temples and shrines welcome respectful visitors of all faiths. You're not required to participate in prayers, but following basic etiquette shows respect for the sacred space and other visitors.
What should I do if I make a mistake with the etiquette?: Don't worry - locals understand that visitors are learning. A simple bow and apologetic gesture if you realize you've done something wrong is enough. Japanese people are generally very forgiving of honest cultural mistakes.
Are there any temples or shrines I shouldn't visit as a tourist?: Almost all temples and shrines welcome tourists. A very few private temple buildings may be restricted during ceremonies, but this is clearly marked. If you see 'no entry' signs or ropes blocking areas, simply respect the boundaries.
Do I need to dress formally for temples and shrines?: Business formal isn't required, but dress modestly. Cover your shoulders and knees. Avoid revealing clothing, offensive graphics on t-shirts, and flip-flops. Clean casual clothing is perfectly appropriate.