How to Learn Basic Etiquette for Visiting Shinto Shrines: “Chouzu and Praying”
How to Learn Basic Etiquette for Visiting Shinto Shrines: “Chouzu and Praying” Japan has many Shinto shrines, attracting numerous visitors. According to the 2022 Religious Yearbook, there are 84,316 registered Shinto shrines in Japan, along with countless unregistered ones. The deities enshrined in these shrines are as varied as the “Yaoyorozu no Kami” (Eight Million Gods). Shintoism widely reveres mysterious and awe-inspiring entities, reflecting a strong animistic aspect. For example, the Akagi Shrine in Kagurazaka originates from the mountain worship of Mount Akagi. Many foreign visitors also come to these shrines across Japan. It’s fascinating that people who believe in monotheistic religions often visit Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples in Japan. Today, I will explain the basic etiquette (manner) for visiting a Shinto shrine, focusing on “Chouzu” (purification with water) and praying. This information is based on the website of the Tokyo Shrine Association, and I will also include a YouTube link from the site for your reference. Basic Etiquette for Visiting Shinto Shrines Shrine Visiting Etiquette Bow before passing through the Torii gate. The Torii gate marks the boundary between the secular world and the sacred realm of the shrine. Purify your hands and mouth at the chouzuya (water