How To Visit Japan’s Shrines And Temples Without Looking Like A Clueless Tourist
Spring is well known to be the best time of year for traveling in Japan, and with searches for ‘Fushimi Inari Shrine’ up 140% in 2025, it’s pretty clear that people are eager to experience all that this incredible country has to offer.
But before you go walking into a temple like it’s just another tourist attraction, there are a few things you should know. Some recent incidents, like damage at Tokyo’s Meiji Shrine and a little too much enthusiasm at Kyoto’s Yasaka Shrine, have led to stricter rules being set. So, let’s talk about how to explore these beautiful places respectfully while still having an unforgettable experience.
Must-Visit Shrines And Temples In Japan
Fushimi Inari Taisha (Kyoto)
With a whopping 39,000 global monthly searches, Fushimi Inari Taisha is the shrine to see in Japan. You’ve probably seen photos of its endless path of bright red torii gates winding up the mountain. It’s dedicated to Inari, the god of rice and prosperity, so if you’re hoping for good fortune (or just an amazing Instagram shot), this is the place to be.
Pro tip: Go early in the morning or late at night when the light is just right for photos and the crowds are at a minimum.
Sensoji Temple (Tokyo)
About 12,000 searches per month are done for Tokyo’s oldest temple. Located in Asakusa, Sensoji is famous for its giant red lantern at the Kaminarimon (Thunder Gate). After you walk through, you’ll find yourself at Nakamise Street, where you can buy snacks and souvenirs before checking out the temple’s main hall.
Pro tip: The best time to visit is either first thing in the morning or at night when the temple is beautifully lit up.
Kinkakuji (Kyoto) – The Golden Pavilion
This Zen temple looks like something straight out of a painting. It racks up around 32,000 searches a month, and for good reason. No matter the season, it’s breathtakingly lush and green in summer, covered in autumn leaves in the fall, and incredibly magical with a dusting of snow in the winter.
Pro tip: Get there early to soak in the tranquility before the tour buses get there.
Shinto Vs. Buddhism: What’s The Difference?
Japan has two main spiritual traditions: Shintoism and Buddhism.
- Shinto shrines (jinja) have torii gates and are dedicated to kami (sacred spirits). You’ll often see fox statues, which are believed to be messengers of the gods.
- Buddhist temples (tera) are places of peace and meditation that have large statues of deities (like the famous Great Buddha in Nara).
Knowing the difference between shrines and temples will help you appreciate and distinguish the customs and rituals that are practiced in each one.
How To Be A Good Tourist
To help travellers make the most of their trip, experts at JR Pass have shared these essential tips for exploring Japan’s shrines and temples.
What To Expect When Visiting Shrines And Temples
- Amazing architecture – Expect towering wooden gates and delicate carvings.
- Zen gardens – Perfect for meditative contemplation or just pretending you’re in a samurai movie. Just please do so quietly.
- Wild deer – Especially in Nara, where deer are considered sacred messengers of the gods. Just be warned; they may try to steal your snacks. Lil’ stinkers…
- Omamori (charms) – You can buy these little amulets for luck, love, success, or protection. They make for great souvenirs, too.
Shrine And Temple Etiquette: Don’t Be That Tourist
Before you step into a shrine or temple, take a moment to understand the proper etiquette. Here’s what you need to know:
Purification Ritual
Before entering, head to the Chōzuya (purification fountain):
- Scoop water with the ladle.
- Pour water over your left hand, then your right hand.
- Rinse your mouth (spit the water out discreetly; don’t drink it).
- Tip the ladle up so the remaining water runs down the handle, cleaning it for the next person.
How to Pray
- At shrines: Bow twice, clap twice, say your prayer, and then bow once more.
- At temples: No clapping. Just bow and take a quiet moment.
- Offering box: Toss in a small coin before you pray (but don’t throw it like you’re playing skee-ball. Remember, the general theme is silence!).
Other Rituals
- Ema Plaques: Write your wish or goal on a small wooden plaque and hang it up. People write everything from “I hope I pass my exams” to “Please let me win the lottery.”
- Incense: At temples, you light incense, wave the smoke toward yourself for good luck, and then let it continue to burn in the offering area.
FAQ: Common Questions About Visiting Shrines And Temples
What’s The Difference Between A Shrine And A Temple In Japan?
Shrines are Shinto, and temples are Buddhist. A quick way to tell is if there’s a torii gate at the entrance, then it’s a shrine. If you see incense burning and big Buddha statues, it’s a temple.
Do You Need To Take Off Your Shoes At Japanese Shrines?
Usually, no. Shrines are mostly outdoors, so shoes stay on. But at temples, especially if you’re entering the main hall, be ready to remove your shoes. Some temples will have visitor slippers you can wear, but plan on at least wearing some socks.
What Should I Wear To Visit A Shrine In Japan?
Dressing respectfully is always a good idea. Avoid super short shorts, tank tops, or anything too revealing. Comfortable shoes are a must because you’ll be walking a lot. Basically, just be sure you are covered.
Final Thoughts
Haroun Khan, founder of JR Pass, puts it best: “Taking part in shrine and temple rituals is a great way to connect with Japan’s spiritual traditions. Observing these customs with respect enhances the experience and shows appreciation for Japan’s sacred spaces.”
So, go ahead and explore, take in the beauty, and enjoy the peaceful energy of Japan’s shrines and temples. Just… maybe don’t overdo it on the bell ringing. 😉
