Posts by Jin-journey Editorial Team

Why do people clap at Shinto shrines in Japan? Learn what the two claps mean, why some shrines differ, and why you normally should not[…]

Do you really need a 5-yen coin at a Japanese shrine? Learn why 5 yen is considered lucky, other popular offering amounts, and how much[…]

Do you have to bow at a torii gate in Japan? Learn why people bow, how to do it, whether to bow when leaving, and[…]

Worried about praying the wrong way at a Japanese shrine? Learn what happens if you forget a bow, clap the wrong number of times, or[…]

Why shouldn’t you walk in the center of a Japanese shrine path? Learn what the custom means, whether it is a strict rule, and what[…]

What is an omamori? Learn the meaning of Japanese protective charms, common types, how to choose one, where to keep it, and what to do[…]

What Is Hatsumode? A Guide to Japan’s First Shrine Visit of the New Year In Japan, many people begin the New Y […]

What Is a Temizuya? A Guide to the Purification Pavilion at Japanese Shrines When visiting a Japanese shrine, […]

What is an ema? Learn the meaning, history, and etiquette of Japan’s wooden prayer plaques, and how to write one at a shrine.

What is a goshuin? Learn the meaning, history, and etiquette of Japan’s sacred calligraphy stamps, and how to collect them respectfully.