Question
I’m planning to visit a Japanese shrine and would love to learn the proper way to pray there. How do I ask, “Could you teach me how to pray at this shrine?” in Japanese?
Japango Editor Team
この神社（じんじゃ）での参拝（さんぱい）の仕方（しかた）を教（おし）えていただけますか。
Kono jinja de no sanpai no shikata o oshiete itadakemasu ka?
Could you teach me how to pray at this shrine?
This phrase is useful when you want to learn the customs and proper etiquette at a shrine. “Kono jinja” means “this shrine”; “sanpai” refers to the act of praying or visiting a shrine; “shikata” means “method” or “way”. The phrase “oshiete itadakemasu ka” is a polite way to ask if someone could teach you.
When visiting a shrine, it’s important to show respect and follow the local customs, so learning the correct way to pray can greatly enhance your cultural experience. Try using this phrase to start a conversation with a shrine attendant or a local. Enjoy your visit!
