How to act when visiting a shrine

The shrine is a holy place for the Japanese and an integral part of their culture.
Consider going when many foreigners are in Japan. However, if you have just arrived in Japan, it may be difficult to know the manners at the shrine. Below are guidelines for people visiting the shrine. The instructions are not mandatory, but the Japanese will be impressed if you follow them.

1. Bow before passing the torii

After passing the torii, you will enter the sanctuary. So, to show your respect to the gods who belong to this place, bow before entering and leaving the torii gate.

2. Walk the edge

The center of the approach to the shrine is called the center where only God walks, so don't walk there, just walk along the edge. In addition, it is said that you should walk on the left side.

3. Cleanse your mouth and hands

There is a classic and decorated water place. There you can not only wash your hands but also cleanse your whole body.
(1) Use your right hand to draw water and wash your left hand.
(2) Reverse your hands and wash your right hand.

(Reference: http://odekakerepo.tea-nifty.com/blog/2007/03/post_e3d8.html)

(3) Hold it in your right hand again, pour a little water into your left hand and rinse your mouth. At that time, do not put your mouth on the cassotte.
(4) Then, wash your left hand with the remaining water, turn the cassotte vertically, and wash away the handle of the cassotte.
(5) Put back the cassotte.

[If you read the article, may you know the meaning of this KARUTA? ]

4. Throw coins into the offering box

If you have one, you should throw a five-yen coin. It is said that your wish will come true if you throw a five-yen coin. Then ring the bell slowly.

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5. Visit

Bow deeply twice, clap your hands twice, pray, and then bow deeply again.
When clapping, it's a good idea to tilt your hand a little. That makes a loud noise that reaches God.

Enjoy visiting a beautiful shrine.

Mirza
India

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This article is a partial re-edit of the article published in Guidable by KARUTA.
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