Question
I’m traveling to Japan and planning to visit some traditional shrines. I’ve heard there are specific cultural etiquettes to observe when praying at these sites. How do I ask someone “How do I pray at a shrine properly?” in Japanese?
Japango Editor Team
神社（じんじゃ）で正（ただ）しくお参（まい）りする方法（ほうほう）はどうすればいいですか。
Jinja de tadashiku o-mairi suru hoohoo wa doo sureba iidesuka?
How do I pray at a shrine properly?
Visiting a shrine in Japan can be a profound cultural experience, and it’s essential to understand the proper way to offer prayers.
In this expression, “jinja” means “shrine,” “tadashiku” means “properly,” and “o-mairi suru” refers to the act of shrine visitation or prayer. “Hoohoo” means “method,” and “doo sureba iidesuka?” asks “how should I do it?”
You can use this question to politely inquire about the proper etiquette from locals or shrine staff, ensuring that you respect the cultural practices during your visit. Remember to observe basic etiquette like bowing before entering the Torii gate and washing your hands at the shrine’s temizuya (purification fountain). Enjoy your cultural exploration!
