New to Japanese Shrines & Temples? 🔍
If you’re new to Japanese shrines and temples, these guides will help you understand the beliefs and customs behind them.
What Are Kami?
In Japan, kami are not simply “gods.” They are sacred presences found in nature, places, and human relationships. Understanding kami is the first step to understanding Japanese shrines and spiritual culture.
Read👉 What Are Kami
How to Visit a Japanese Shrine
Learn the basic etiquette of visiting a shrine, from bowing at the torii gate to offering a prayer with respect.
Read 👉How to Visit a Japanese Shrine
How to Visit a Japanese Temple
Temples follow different customs from shrines. This guide explains the basics for first-time visitors.
Read 👉How to Visit a Japanese Temple
Inari and the Fox
The fox is not the kami. Discover why Inari shrines hold such an important place in Japanese life.
Read 👉Inari and the Fox
Omikuji
What does a Japanese fortune slip really mean, and should you tie it to a tree?
Read 👉The World of Omikuji
Goshuin
Why do people collect temple and shrine seals? Discover the meaning behind goshuin.
Read 👉What is Goshuin?
Omamori
How should you choose, use, and return Japanese amulets?
Read 👉A Guide to Japanese Omamori