Two traditions, often side by side
Japan has two long-established religious traditions whose sites look similar to a visitor and are often found close together. Buddhist temples (tera or -ji) are associated with Buddhism, which reached Japan from the Asian mainland. Shinto shrines (jinja) are associated with Japan’s native tradition of kami, the sacred powers or spirits honoured at particular places. For much of Japanese history the two were closely intertwined, and many sites still show traces of that mixture.
The practical result is that manners differ slightly depending on where you are standing. This article describes the general customs, which vary by site, region and community. Where a sign or a member of staff tells you to do something differently, follow them.
Telling temples and shrines apart
A shrine is usually entered through a torii, a gateway of two pillars and crossbeams. A temple is usually entered through a large gate, often with guardian figures, and typically contains Buddha images, a main hall, and sometimes a pagoda and a bell tower. Some sites combine elements of both, so the signs and the layout are the best guides. The article on the layout of a Japanese temple describes the buildings in more detail.
At the gate
At both kinds of site, a brief bow at the gate is a common courtesy before entering. Many people bow again when leaving. At a shrine, visitors are often taught to walk to the side of the central path of the approach, since the centre is traditionally associated with the passage of the deity. At a temple, visitors commonly avoid stepping on the threshold of the gate. Neither habit is a rule that must be performed perfectly, and being quiet and observant matters more than precision.
Purification at the water basin
Near the entrance of many sites there is a water basin with ladles. The usual sequence, with variations, is:
- Take the ladle in the right hand and rinse the left hand.
- Switch hands and rinse the right.
- Pour a little water into the cupped left hand and rinse the mouth, without touching the ladle to the lips and without swallowing.
- Rinse the left hand again, then tip the ladle upright so that the remaining water runs down the handle.
The aim is a symbolic cleansing of body and mind before approaching the sacred space. Some sites have closed their basins, or replaced ladles with other arrangements, so read any notices.
Incense, candles and offerings
At temples, visitors often light incense and place it in a large burner. The practice is a gesture of respect and offering, and the number of sticks varies by school and habit. A common courtesy is to light the stick from the candle flame, and if the stick catches fire, to put the flame out by waving a hand rather than blowing on it. Smoke in the burner is sometimes wafted toward the body by people who believe it brings healing, but this is a folk custom, not a requirement.
A small coin offering is typically placed in the offering box before the main hall. The amount is a personal matter; no particular sum is expected. The wider question of giving is covered in the article on shrine offerings.
Prayer: the main difference
The clearest difference between the two types of site is how people pray.
- At a Buddhist temple, visitors usually put their palms together in front of the chest, bow quietly, and say a silent prayer or recite a short phrase. Clapping is not usual.
- At a Shinto shrine, the commonly taught form is two bows, two claps, a silent prayer, and a final bow. Some shrines have their own variations.
Visitors who are unsure what to do at a combined site can simply bow with hands together and stay silent; this is generally acceptable at either.
Dress, shoes and behaviour
Modest dress is a general expectation at both kinds of site, and it is wise to follow the advice in the guide to what to wear when visiting Buddhist temples. Shoes are removed before stepping into temple halls and some shrine buildings, usually at a raised entrance or marked shelf, and the broader practice is discussed under temple entry customs. Pointing the feet toward images, touching sacred objects, or climbing on structures should be avoided.
Photography rules vary a great deal. Many halls forbid it indoors, and photographing people at prayer without asking is discourteous, a point covered further in the article on temple photography etiquette. Speak quietly, switch off phone sounds, and keep out of the way of people who have come to pray.
Variation and humility
Japanese religious practice is not uniform. Customs differ between schools of Buddhism such as Shingon, Tendai, Pure Land and Zen, between shrines, and between regions. Local people themselves sometimes disagree about details. Visitors are not expected to know everything; a respectful attitude, a willingness to watch and follow, and a polite question when in doubt carry more weight than a flawless performance.