Is "two bows, two claps, one bow" the same everywhere?
In short
It depends"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.
When does this apply?
The Association of Shinto Shrines presents two deep bows, two claps and one bow as the basic form. Some shrines, however, keep special ways of worship, such as a different number of claps, and at those shrines you follow their style.
Why?
Ways of worship have changed over a long history. Regional and shrine-specific traditions are still valued, so not every shrine uses the same form.
What to do
- Remember the basic form: two bows, two claps, one bow
- Follow the shrine’s own instructions if a sign shows them
- At temples, put your hands together quietly without clapping
Better to avoid
- Tell others that only the way you know is correct
Exceptions and differences
Some shrines differ, for example with more claps. Visitors do not need to worry about every detail; quietly showing respect is what matters.
Manners can differ by region, facility and generation. Local signs and staff instructions come first.
Check with a quiz
Which is true about "two bows, two claps, one bow"?
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Sources
- 参拝方法 (How to worship at a shrine)(opens in a new tab)
- Shrine and Temple Traditions(opens in a new tab)
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