TempleEtiquette in Japan: What to Know Before You Visit

Visiting a temple in Japan isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s an opportunity to connect with the country’s rich spiritual and cultural traditions. Knowing some basic temple etiquette can really help you show respect and avoid any awkward moments. 

This guide covers everything you need to know before you go, like how to behave and the right way to purify your hands and offer prayers.

Here is the list of everything you will find in this article:

However, before I explain the guidelines, let me clarify the difference between a Shrine and a Buddhist Temple.

A. Difference between Shrine and Temple

At first glance, Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples in Japan may look similar, but they belong to two distinct religious traditions and serve different spiritual purposes.

⛩️ Shinto Shrines (Jinja) 

• Religion: Shinto – Japan’s indigenous spiritual tradition.

• Purpose: Shrines are dedicated to kami—divine spirits associated with nature, ancestors, or sacred objects.

• Key Features:

✴️ The torii gate (the iconic red arch) marks the sacred space.

✴️.A purification fountain (temizuya) for rinsing hands and mouth.

✴️ Ema (wooden prayer plaques) and omikuji (paper fortune slips).

Don’t miss my Guide to Japanese Lucky Charms & Amulets for more info.

✴️ A rope and bell above the offering box.

• Worship Style: Bow twice, clap twice, make a silent prayer or wish, then bow once more.

🛕 Buddhist Temples (Otera) 

• Religion: Buddhism – introduced from China via Korea. To learn more about this religion, check out my post, Japanese Buddhism Made Simple.

• Purpose: Temples are places for meditation, prayer, and honouring the Buddha and bodhisattvas.

• Key Features:

✴️ Pagodas and large Buddha statues.

✴️.Incense burners at the entrance.

✴️ Ornate halls and often attached cemeteries.

✴️.Resident monks who live and practice there.

• Worship Style: Quiet reflection, bowing, and offering incense are standard practices.

B. General Temple & Shrine Etiquette in Japan

Visiting a shrine or temple in Japan is an opportunity to connect with the country’s spiritual heritage. To help you have a respectful and meaningful experience, here are some simple guidelines to keep in mind:

1. General Behaviour Tips

• Dress Modestly: Choose clothing that’s respectful—avoid anything too revealing, especially in religious or traditional settings.
  
• Keep Noise to a Minimum: Use soft voices and be mindful of the quiet, peaceful atmosphere.

• No Food or Drink: Eating, drinking, or smoking is typically not permitted within sacred grounds—save your snacks for later.

2. Before Entering

🫧 Purify Yourself (At Shrines)

Near the entrance of most Shinto shrines, you’ll find a purification fountain (chōzuya or temizuya). Here’s how to use it properly:

1. Take the ladle in your right hand, and pour water over your left hand.
2. Switch hands and pour water over your right hand.
3. Pour some water into your left hand, and use it to rinse your mouth (don’t touch the ladle with your mouth).
4. Spit the water quietly into the nearby drain, not back into the basin.
5. Give your left hand one final rinse.
6. Tip the ladle vertically to let any remaining water run down the handle, then return it to its original position.

⚠️ Remember: Never drink directly from the ladle! 😉

🙇‍♀️ Bow at the Entrance (At Temples)

Before entering, bow once politely. As you walk through, keep to the sides of the path—the centre is considered the passage for the gods (kami).

3. At the Main Hall

⛩️ For Shinto Shrines

1. Make an Offering – Toss a small coin (a 5-yen coin is considered lucky) into the offering box.
2. Bow Twice – Deep, respectful bows.
3. Clap Twice – Loud enough to “wake” the gods.
4. Make a Silent Prayer or Wish.
5. Bow Once More – Deeply, to conclude.

🧘‍♂️ For Buddhist Temples

• Approach calmly.
• Offer a quiet prayer with hands together.
• A light bow is customary.
• If there are specific instructions (some temples have unique customs), follow them respectfully.

4. A Few More Important Tips

• Photography: Always check for signs. Photography may be prohibited in certain areas, like the main hall or sacred zones. Avoid snapping pictures where others are praying.
• Follow the Rules: Each site may have its own customs—signs will usually guide you. When in doubt, observe what locals do.
• Respect the Space: Don’t touch sacred objects or step on marked-off areas. These are spiritual places, not just tourist spots.

5. After Your Visit

As you leave, bow once more—at the torii gate (for shrines) or main entrance (for temples). It’s a thoughtful way to show gratitude and respect.

Thanks for being considerate during your visit. These spaces are more than just beautiful—they’re living parts of Japan’s cultural soul. Take your time, soak in the atmosphere, and enjoy the quiet magic of these special places!

C. More About Japan

Planning a trip to Japan? Here are some of my top posts to help you make the most of your journey – from detailed itineraries and cultural insights to city guides and unique experiences across the country.

⭐ Itineraries & City Guides

🗾🌸 Japan in 20 Days: Cherry Blossom Itinerary & Top Cities. Plan the perfect spring getaway with this 20-day itinerary covering Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, cherry blossoms, and essential travel tips.

🗼 Tokyo 4-Day Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See. Explore Tokyo’s must-visit attractions, neighbourhoods, street food, and cultural highlights in just four unforgettable days.

🚉 Kamakura & Yokohama: Day Trip from Tokyo. A perfect day trip from Tokyo to explore Kamakura’s temples and Yokohama’s scenic bayside – history, food, and coastal charm.

🏯 Odawara, Hakone, Fujiyoshida & Nagoya: Castles, Fuji, and Onsen. Visit historic castles, soak in hot springs, and admire iconic views of Mount Fuji on this scenic multi-stop adventure.

⛩️ The Best of Kyoto in 3 Days. Discover Kyoto’s top temples, gardens, and cultural sites in just three days – includes a downloadable map to guide you.

🍜 Sumo in Osaka, Tastes of Kobe & Highlights from Himeji & Okayama. Catch a sumo match, try Kobe beef, and explore some of Japan’s best castles in this fast-paced guide to western Japan.

📍 Hiroshima & Miyajima: Top Attractions. A must-read for first-timers – explore Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and the stunning Itsukushima Shrine on Miyajima Island.

🏝️ Okinawa: What to See & Do. Planning a beach escape? Discover what to see, do, and know before visiting Okinawa, Japan’s tropical paradise.

⭐ Culture, Religion & Traditions

🧘 Koyasan: My Stay at a Buddhist Temple. Experience the peaceful world of Japanese Buddhism with a temple stay in Koyasan – meditation, monks, and morning prayers.

☸️ Japanese Buddhism Made Simple. New to Buddhism? This beginner-friendly guide breaks down key beliefs and traditions in Japanese Buddhist culture.

🍀 Guide to Japanese Lucky Charms & Amulets. Curious about omamori, daruma, or maneki neko? Learn the meanings and traditions behind Japan’s most iconic charms.

⭐ Travel Tips & Cultural Insights

📌 Japan Tourist Information: What You Need to Know. Practical info every traveller should know – transport, money, customs, etiquette, and more to prepare you for your trip.

🚇 Practical Tokyo Guide for First-Time Visitors. Navigate Tokyo like a pro with this beginner-friendly guide to public transport, safety tips, and local etiquette.

📖 Kyoto Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go. Everything you need for a smooth trip to Kyoto – from the best seasons to visit, how to get around, and local customs.

🌆 Osaka Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Go. When to go, how to get around, what to eat, and more – your go-to guide for Japan’s most vibrant foodie city.

D. Ready to Book your Trip?

To help you organise your adventure, I’ve gathered the best tools I use and recommend for booking flights, hotels, local transport and more. These links support this site at no extra cost to you.

Safe travels! 🌏✈️

Additional Information

You can also check my itineraries in Itineraries. Here, you’ll find them classified in City Guides and Country Guides.

Remember to check Cook up Your Trip. There, you will find everything you need to organise your trip from start to finish.

If you require any clarification, please feel free to leave a comment or complete the contact form. I will be happy to help you. 😊

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