Question
I’m planning to visit a local shrine during my stay in Japan, but I’m not sure about the customs when praying. How do I ask “Can you tell me the proper way to pray at a shrine?” in Japanese?
Japango Editor Team
神社（じんじゃ）での正しい（ただしい）お参り（おまいり）の仕方（しかた）を教（おし）えてください。
Jinja de no tadashii omairi no shikata o oshiete kudasai.
Can you tell me the proper way to pray at a shrine?
Visiting shrines is a popular cultural experience in Japan, and knowing the proper way to pray shows respect for local customs. The word “jinja” means “shrine”; “tadashii” means “correct” or “proper”; “omairi” means “visiting a shrine”; and “shikata” means “method” or “way.” The phrase “oshiete kudasai” means “please tell me” or “please teach me.”
This expression can be very helpful to ensure you are adhering to the traditional practices when visiting spiritual sites in Japan.
