How to Pray

Summary

This is a simple step-by-step guide to praying at a Shinto shrine with respect. It explains the basic manners so first-time visitors can feel at ease and pray with confidence.

In ancient times, there were no strict rules for praying to kami (deities). What matters most is a sincere heart, rather than perfect form.

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Steps to Pray

At the Torii (鳥居, gate)

Bow once before entering. The torii marks the boundary between the everyday world and the sacred area.

Extra respect: When leaving, walk quietly back to the torii. After you pass under it, turn toward the shrine and bow once to show gratitude.

On the Sando (参道, approach)

Walk on the side of the path leading to the shrine. The center line, called seichu (正中), is believed to be the way of the kami. Avoid walking in the middle. When crossing it, bow lightly toward the shrine. Avoid stepping on the wooden threshold when you pass through gates.

At the Temizuya (手水舎, purification)

The temizuya (手水舎), also called chozuya, is the pavilion for ritual purification. Here you wash your hands and mouth before praying. This simple ritual cleanses your hands, mouth, and mind before you approach the deity.

1. Hold the ladle in your right hand and wash your left hand.
2. Switch hands and wash your right hand.
3. Hold the ladle in your right hand again. Pour a little water into your left palm, rinse your mouth, and spit discreetly beside the basin or into the drain. Do not touch the ladle directly with your mouth.
4. Wash your left hand again.
5. Hold the ladle upright so the remaining water rinses the handle.
6. Place the ladle back face down on the rack.

Photography may be restricted near sacred areas. Please follow on-site signs.

At the Shaden (社殿, main hall)

Note: Many shrines have both a haiden (拝殿, worship hall) and honden (本殿, main sanctuary). Visitors usually pray at the haiden (worship hall).

1. Make an offering at the saisen box (賽銭箱). This is a gesture of gratitude.
2. Ring the bell if there is one to announce your arrival.
3. Bow twice.
4. Clap your hands twice. After clapping, keep your hands together and make your silent prayer.
5. Bow deeply once more.

Tip: When clapping, slide your right hand slightly lower than your left. This shows respect by placing the human side below the divine, expressing shinjin goitsu (神人合一, harmony of human and divine). After clapping, align your hands again to pray.
Before making your wish, quietly tell the deity your name and where you are from. It is said that this helps the kami recognize you. Many Japanese people first express gratitude for everyday blessings, then make their wish or prayer.

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Special Cases

Some shrines have their own style. If unsure, follow the basic steps above and watch local practice.

• Izumo Taisha (出雲大社, Shimane): Two bows, four claps, one bow.
• Usa Jingu (宇佐神宮, Oita): Two bows, four claps, one bow.
• Ise Jingu (伊勢神宮, Mie): Priests perform yatohai (eight claps), but visitors usually use the standard two bows, two claps, one bow.

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General Etiquette

• Purify your hands and mouth at the temizuya (手水舎).
• Bow twice, clap twice, and bow once (ni-rei ni-hakushu ichi-rei).
• Keep quiet around the honden (本殿, main sanctuary).
• Please refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking within the shrine grounds.
• Aerial drones are strictly prohibited.
• Please be mindful when taking photos, as some areas may be sacred.
• Do not step on the wooden threshold of gates or halls.

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Note

This guide shows the most common way to pray at shrines. Customs can differ by shrine. Please follow signs or local guidance when available.

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