Do you pray the same way at shrines and temples?
No. At shrines the basic form is two bows, two claps and one bow; at temples you put your hands together quietly without clapping.
Shrines & Temples
How to pray, purification, photos and offerings at shrines and temples.
Can you take photos at shrines and temples?
It depends on the spot. Most grounds allow photos, but inside main halls and of Buddhist statues it is often prohibited.
What do you do at a temizuya?
It is where you purify your hands and mouth before praying. Never touch the ladle with your lips; rinse your mouth with water poured into your palm.
What do people do when passing through a torii?
Many people bow lightly before a torii gate and walk slightly to the side of the path’s centre. It is a gesture of respect, not a rule.
Is "two bows, two claps, one bow" the same everywhere?
"Two bows, two claps, one bow" is the basic form at many shrines, but some shrines have their own style. At Buddhist temples, people do not clap.
Is there a set amount for a shrine offering?
There is no set amount for an offering (osaisen). Any amount is fine; it is given as a gesture of your feelings.