All across Japan, there are numerous opportunities to visit a shrine throughout the year. Not all the Japanese know how to do it properly, notwithstanding that shrine-related etiquette is a core part of Japanese culture.
Entering the temple precincts through the torii
Torii are the gateways leading to a shinto shrine. The outermost torii is called ichi no torii. Bow before going through a torii.
How to walk an approach to a Shinto shrine
The middle of the approach is believed to be the path of God.
When walking the approach, it is respectful to walk on the edge.
Hand-cleaning and mouth-rinsing
Before reaching the worship hall, there is a chozūya or temizuya, a water ablution pavilion, where worshippers perform the hand and mouth purification ritual.
- First of all, hold the ladle with your right hand, fill it with water and cleanse your left hand.
- Then take the ladle with your left hand, fill it with water and cleanse your right hand.
- Shift the ladle to the right hand again. Cup your left hand, pour some water into it and use it to rinse your mouth.
- Rinse your left hand once more.
- Finally, fill the ladle with water and tip it upwards, so that water trickles down the handle to cleanse it.
Worship etiquette
The general rule is is two bows, two claps, one bow. This is true with most shrines, but there are other holy places, such as Izumo-taisha and Usa Jingū, where the custom is two bows, four claps, one bow. There are other fashions of clapping or bowing, but those are not used for general shrine visits. When in doubt, just ask a priest.